Top Judge Warns of Rising Violence Against Legal Professionals

Supreme Court President Justice Yitzhak Amit has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating violence, both verbal and physical, directed at judges and lawyers in Israel. Speaking at a conference hosted by the Israel Bar Association, Amit highlighted that attacks on legal professionals, particularly following the murder of attorney Arbel Feldman by a client, are part of a broader trend.

Amit stated that "media attacks on judges over their rulings constitute an attempt to pressure judges over their decisions, and to undermine the ability of all judges to fulfill their mission without fear." He emphasized the unique severity of violence against legal officials, noting that it can deter lawyers from taking on complex or unpopular cases, thereby impairing their ability to represent clients independently and affecting the public's access to effective legal representation and the protection of individual rights.

The Supreme Court President pointed to several incidents, including attacks on the homes of judicial figures and disruptions in court proceedings, suggesting that some individuals intentionally cause disturbances. He noted that in extreme cases, courts have had to restrict public access and provide escorts for legal personnel due to fears of assault within the courthouse.

Amit stressed that the path to physical violence begins with verbal aggression, often fueled by public discourse and social media. He criticized the "disparaging and violent discourse towards judges" that personalizes attacks, attributes baseless motives, and delegitimizes the judiciary, leading to a negative public perception.

Israel Bar Association President Amit Becher echoed these concerns, calling for decisive enforcement, deterrent punishments, and legislative changes to equate assaulting a lawyer with assaulting a public official. The Bar Association plans to appoint a dedicated project manager to handle cases of threatened and attacked lawyers, with retired Deputy Commissioner Dedi Zamir taking on the role.