Russians who are summoned to testify as witnesses must first secure legal representation. In an interview about this process, attorney Shota Gorgadze explained the key reasons for hiring a lawyer when giving testimony.
He emphasized that seeking counsel does not imply guilt or concealment. Rather, having a lawyer present signals a clear stance: there is no interest in allowing pressure or rights violations to occur during the witness questioning. This guidance helps ensure that the rights of the witness are protected and that the testimony is accurate and voluntary.
Gorgadze also advised witnesses to stay calm during interviews and to listen carefully to every question posed by the investigator. The goal is to respond truthfully and thoughtfully, without assuming that the act of testifying is an admission of criminal involvement. A practical step he recommends is handing over a mobile phone to the lawyer before entering the investigation authority, so it cannot be removed or misused during proceedings.
He added that there may come a moment during questioning when there are grounds to change a witness into a person of interest in the case. In such circumstances, the investigator has the authority to seize the cell phone. To prevent the loss of phone access and the potential disclosure of content, it is prudent to rely on the lawyer to manage the device in the custody of the legal defender.
In related matters, Nikita Filippov, recognized as an honorary lawyer in Russia, has previously noted penalties related to vehicle appearance violations. Specifically, there can be warnings or fines for failing to keep headlights clean or for inadvertent contamination of license plates, with penalties sometimes reaching 500 rubles. This underscores the broader pattern of how compliance and regulatory details can carry consequences in various contexts.
There has also been public discussion about the broader implications for immigration, including ongoing conversations about the mass return of individuals who were previously deported. Legal professionals emphasize that this topic intersects with numerous administrative procedures, rights protections, and the practicalities of repatriation. Witnesses, migrants, and residents alike are reminded that legal counsel can help navigate these complex processes, reduce stress during inquiries, and clarify what information should be provided and when to seek further guidance.
Ultimately, the presence of a lawyer during any testimony serves multiple purposes: it reinforces the integrity of the process, safeguards the rights of the individual, and helps ensure that the information provided is accurate and consistent with the requirements of the investigation. For Russians facing summons, the strategic choice to obtain counsel early can shape the trajectory of the inquiry and reduce the risk of unintended consequences during examination by authorities.