FIFA introduces new legal aid system and opens applications for pro bono counsel
“In the interests of respecting the rights of individuals and transparency during proceedings,” FIFA has announced that it has “decided to close the gap that exists between individuals in terms of their financial power by supporting those who have insufficient financial means” at judicial proceedings before the Disciplinary Committee, the Appeals Committee and the Ethics Committee.
The new Disciplinary Code and Code of Ethics, which were introduced recently, provide financial support as well as access to counsel who will act on a pro bono basis.
FIFA is currently in the process of compiling a list of potential pro bono counsel and aims to ensure that only independent lawyers with appropriate experience and expertise in football/sports law are selected.
Bearing this in mind, FIFA is now looking for pro bono counsel, who must fulfill the following criteria:
- Active sports lawyer in a company and/or law firm certifying at least 7 years dealing with sports law matters,
- 3-5 years of experience with sports organisations,
- 3-5 years of experience in sports arbitration proceedings,
- Fluency in two of FIFA’s official languages would be an asset, i.e. English, Spanish, French and/or German.
Candidates must submit their application by 30 September 2019 at the latest. Further details are available in a circular letter sent today to FIFA’s member associations.