The Ministry of Justice says it is not aware of João Massano's proposal, but does not object to the Bar Association creating permanent teams of court-appointed lawyers if it considers the current system does not provide an adequate response.
Mega-cases: Ministry distances itself from the Bar Association president, but does not oppose the measure
Monday, 26 January 2026RSS
Context & Explainers
The Bar Association (Ordem dos Advogados) is the professional body that regulates lawyers in Portugal, manages ethics and professional registration, and organises legal aid and court-appointed defence. The association can set up permanent teams of court-appointed lawyers if it judges the current system inadequate, which is why the Ministry of Justice said it would not object to such a move.
