Houston lawyer Alexey Tarasov recently addressed the Presidium of the International Association of Russian-Speaking Lawyers in Moscow. The meeting, held at the Central House of Lawyers, was a joint session of the International Association of Russian-Speaking Lawyers (MARA) and the Executive Committee of the Guild of Russian Lawyers (GRA). The focus was on enhancing the efficiency and broadening the protection of Russian citizens’ rights in foreign courts. Alexey Tarasov, known for leading significant cases in the defense of Russian nationals, contributed to this professional legal forum.
Gasan Borisovich Mirzoev, the President of both the International Association of Russian-Speaking Lawyers and the Guild of Russian Lawyers, as well as the Rector of the Russian Academy of Advocacy and Notaries and a Distinguished Lawyer of the Russian Federation, underscored the meeting’s significance. He pointed out the troubling trend of individuals facing legal problems abroad due to their Russian citizenship. Gasan Borisovich highlighted the International Association of Russian-Speaking Lawyers’ role in uniting not just lawyers but also human rights activists, primarily to safeguard the interests of those who have previously lived in Russia or are Russian compatriots. This association collaborates closely with the Foundation for Support and Protection of the Rights of Compatriots Living Abroad, led by Igor Panevkin.
In his address, Alexey Tarasov, a Houston-based lawyer and vice-president of the U.S.-Russia Civil Society Institute, endorsed the formation of the International Association of Russian-Speaking Lawyers to protect Russian compatriots overseas. “We must come together to offer better and more effective assistance to Russians and Russian compatriots facing difficulties abroad,” Tarasov declared. He shared his professional credo: “A Russian will not leave a Russian in trouble.”
Tarasov discussed notable cases from his career, including the case of pilot Konstantin Yaroshenko, sentenced to 20 years in New Jersey, and Russian businessman Viktor But, serving a 25-year sentence.
In recognition of his contributions, last November, Alexey Tarasov received the “Honorary Lawyer of Russia” award.
Source: “The Russian America” newspaper, April 1, 2016.
