Idul fitri has passed, many interesting stories during the gathering with the extended family during the Eid moments, one of which must be curious about the profession and work of each family member. And when I say that my profession is an advocate or lawyer, many brothers (especially those who have never touched law at all, and only know the profession of lawyers from the media) immediately smiled sarcastically, saying “oh the one who usually justifies wrong and blames the right”.

That the advocate profession is still limited to right / wrong as well as lose / win is a general view created by the perception that has been built because the public is often treated to drama cases of law through the mainstream media. Advocates are always identified with the clients they represent. Even though article 18 paragraph (2) of Law No. 18/2003 on Advocates states that in essence, in carrying out their profession, an advocate is not identical with a client, but still the slanted label on the advocate will be attached to the advocate who defends the interests of the client who is considered a criminal.
Advocates of corruption = corruptors, Advocates of murderers = defenders of criminals, Advocates of human rights violators = violators of human rights, this often sounds loud even among activists who should understand the rights and obligations of the profession. Still fresh in my mind when Adnan Buyung Nasution decided to defend Anas Urbaningrum, Gayus Tambunan, or Tubagus Chaeri Wardhana, who were … Read More


