Lawyer Alleges Mismanagement at Baku Court of Appeals

Lawyer Agil Layij has accused the chairman of the Baku Court of Appeals, Mubariz Akperov, of mismanagement and called on President Ilham Aliyev to intervene. Layij voiced his concerns in a Facebook post, stating that Akperov's leadership has reduced legal defense to a "formal level."

"When he [Akperov] chaired the Sheki Court of Appeals, public surveys identified it as the least respected court in society. Now, under his leadership, the Baku Court of Appeals, especially in criminal cases, creates numerous difficulties for lawyers. The court should follow the example of the Shirvan Court of Appeals," Layij wrote.

In an interview with Turan, Layij expressed his disappointment in the judicial system following the resignation of Justice Minister Fikret Mammadov in February 2024. "Unfortunately, my fears have been confirmed. The situation at the Baku Court of Appeals has deteriorated, particularly in the handling of criminal cases. The number of pre-trial detentions for routine cases has risen sharply, and many newly appointed judges are unfit for their roles," he said.

Layij criticized the lack of oversight in the judiciary, which he claims undermines lawyers' work. He urged the Judicial-Legal Council to listen to public concerns and revisit its approach to judicial appointments.

The lawyer also took aim at the Center for Forensic Expertise, accusing it of corruption and malpractice. "The center manipulates evidence, issues false reports, and ruins lives. Even enemies do not stoop to such levels," Layij stated.

Turan's attempts to get comments from the Baku Court of Appeal and the Center for Forensic Expertise were unsuccessful.