Armenia bans lawyers from entering police stations Ombudsman's statement

Armenian Ombudsperson Anahit Manasyan has received numerous requests from lawyers who complain that they are banned from entering police stations and investigative agencies to participate in legal proceedings.

The ombudsperson's office stated that according to the lawyers, Armenian law enforcement agencies prohibit them from entering police stations to protect the interests of their clients, Caliber.Az reports citing the Armenian media.

“Unhindered visits and the opportunity to see a client is not an end in itself. These guarantees are aimed at the full implementation of the rights of people who need legal assistance, while a ban on talking to a client in some cases means ignoring the client’s rights,” the statement says.

Manasyan’s office said that all problems and questions have been summarised, and requests have been sent to the relevant law enforcement agencies to obtain the necessary clarifications.