Call for Proposal - Legal Representation and Advocacy

Scope of Work and Responsibilities:

• Legal Representation: Represent clients (journalists, bloggers, HRDs) in court proceedings and administrative hearings.
• Advocacy for Dismissal of Unjust Cases: Actively pursue the dismissal of politically motivated or unfair legal actions.
• Defense of Freedom of Expression: Provide legal support that upholds media independence and digital rights.
• Legal Advisory Services: Offer timely and accurate legal advice on issues related to freedom of speech, digital security, and legal harassment.
• Case Monitoring: Ensure proper follow-up on ongoing legal cases across multiple regions in Lebanon.
• Legal Capacity Building (optional): Engage with URDA’s programming team to provide awareness or training sessions as needed.

Target Beneficiaries:

• At-risk Journalists and Bloggers
• Human Rights Defenders (HRDs)

Expected Deliverables:

• Legal representation and follow-up for at least 25 cases, including bail-related
• legal services, throughout the 3-year consultancy period.

Location:

• Legal services are to be provided throughout all governorates of Lebanon and across different judicial courts.

Qualifications & Required Experience:

• Official registration with the Lebanese Bar Association.
• Demonstrated expertise in digital law, human rights law, and freedom of expression litigation.
• Proven ability to manage cases across various Lebanese regions.
• Significant experience in defending journalists and HRDs.
• Deep understanding of national laws and international standards related to freedom of expression and human rights.
• Strong capacity for legal research, case preparation, and courtroom litigation.

Impact of the Role:

By ensuring timely legal defense and strategic litigation support, the selected law firm will contribute to the protection and empowerment of Lebanon’s media and human rights community. The firm's interventions will help combat legal intimidation, reinforce journalistic integrity, and uphold democratic values of freedom of speech and rule of law.