Italian lawyers could win ‘wild west-style bounties’ if immigration clients go home
Summary
The Italian government has proposed paying lawyers bonuses if they help immigrants voluntarily return to their home countries. This plan, part of a new security bill, is sparking criticism from legal groups and opposition parties who say it may harm immigrants’ rights and judicial independence.Key Facts
- Italian lawyers would get a bonus if their immigrant clients accept voluntary repatriation and actually return home.
- The government has budgeted €246,000 for this incentive in 2024, with funding increasing in 2027 and 2028.
- The exact bonus amount is not fixed, but media estimate it at about €615 per migrant.
- The bill also removes legal aid for immigrants challenging deportation orders.
- Italy’s national bar council and criminal lawyers’ group oppose the plan, citing constitutional concerns and the need for lawyer independence.
- The magistrates’ union warned that the bonus could undermine fair judicial protection.
- Opposition politicians described the plan as a “wild west-style bounty” and compared it to harsh U.S. immigration policies.
- This measure follows a referendum defeat for the government and is part of broader efforts to limit irregular immigration, including authorizing naval blockades.
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