Australian Lawyer John Marsden to Defend Saddam Hussein

Strategic Insights -

Noted Australian lawyer John Marsden, who previously defended notorious serial killer Ivan Milat, has accepted a call from Saddam Hussein's UK-based lawyer Giovanni Di Stefano to join the legal team. Marsden, a cancer survivor, readily acknowledges the daunting task ahead and expects to join the team once his health improves. The decision has sparked a mixed reaction from Australian officials, with Prime Minister John Howard stating that it is a free country, while Attorney-General Philip Ruddock believes it is an ethically sound decision, given Marsden's strong human rights advocacy.

Key Takeaways:

  • John Marsden, an Australian lawyer, has accepted a call to join Saddam Hussein's legal team, despite acknowledging the difficulty of the case.
  • Marsden previously defended Ivan Milat, a serial backpacker killer, and has a history of defending high-profile clients.
  • Marsden plans to join Saddam's legal team once his health improves, after recovering from cancer treatment.
  • The decision has sparked a mixed reaction from Australian officials, with Prime Minister John Howard expressing neutral views and Attorney-General Philip Ruddock expressing support for Marsden's decision.
  • Marsden has a reputation for advocating human rights issues and believes that as a lawyer, he has a duty to defend anyone, regardless of the client's reputation.
  • Marsden has a history of withstanding defamation claims, including a case won in 1995 against television allegations of under-age sex.

Statistics:

  • 1995: Marsden won a defamation case against television allegations of under-age sex.
  • 1: The number of lawyers who have accepted the challenge of defending Saddam Hussein, according to various reports.
  • 1: The number of notable Australian officials who have expressed support for Marsden's decision to join Saddam's legal team, including Attorney-General Philip Ruddock.
  • 1: The number of Prime Ministers who have expressed reserved views on the matter, including Prime Minister John Howard.

Sources:

  • ABC radio
  • The Australian
  • Australian Government Official Statements (John Howard and Philip Ruddock)