At the Paris judicial court, reactions are unanimous among the lawyers and magistrates met. The former anti-corruption judge “was as much appreciated as he was feared”.
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Former judge Renaud Van Ruymbeke died on Friday May 10. He is famous for his investigations into major political-financial cases: Urba, Clearstream, Cahuzac, Balkany… He retired in 2019. At the Paris judicial court, legal professionals unanimously salute him.
In the corridors, lawyers in black robes wait for the trials to begin. They have just learned of the death of Judge Van Ruymbeke. “It’s the death of a legend. We lose a brilliant magistrateestimates Elie Dottelonde, lawyer in criminal law. He was as much appreciated as feared. We couldn’t afford the slightest mistake because he knew all his files perfectly.” Appreciated, even on the other side of the bar. Manon Krouti, defense lawyer, respected him a lot “because he left his mark on justice in the 21st century. In terms of career, righteousness and values, he is a human example.
“To have unanimous opinions on a magistrate denotes the truth of what we praise him.”
Manon Krouti, lawyerat franceinfo
On the magistrates’ side, a deep sadness can be seen on the face of Fabrice Vert. The first vice-president of the Paris judicial court worked alongside him for a long time. “I am from the generation of judges who have great admiration for Judge Van Ruymbeke, who was one of the first to tackle political-financial affairs. He was aware that every citizen must be treated in the same way before the judge, whether he is powerful or poor, so it is a great emotion to learn of his death.” He will also be remembered for his talent as a pianist. Renaud Van Ruymbeke even gave concerts in the court.
