LBH GP Ansor Bali Submits Amicus Curiae, Calls for Togar Situmorang to Receive Proportionate Punishment

“Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is a virtue,” wrote the philosopher Baruch Spinoza.

The Legal Aid Institute (LBH) of Gerakan Pemuda Ansor Bali submitted an amicus curiae document to the public prosecutor (JPU) in the case of alleged fraud and/or embezzlement involving defendant Togar Situmorang at the Denpasar District Court on Tuesday (31/3).

LBH GP Ansor Bali Chairman Daniar Trisasongko stated that his organisation felt compelled to provide legal input in case number 1292/Pid.B/2025/PN Denpasar, as it has captured significant public attention.

“I personally, and LBH Gerakan Pemuda Ansor Bali, feel called to contribute to this judicial process. A lawyer who is also a doctor of law is accused of defrauding and/or embezzling from a client. This is highly regrettable and warrants proportionate punishment,” Daniar said.

The amicus curiae document was handed over to JPU Evi after the defendant’s plea hearing. A copy was also submitted to the Denpasar District Court for forwarding to the panel of judges.

Daniar assessed that the case has the potential to damage public trust in the advocacy profession. He described the alleged criminal acts as no longer a routine matter, but a betrayal of client trust.

“The public will come to believe that the work of advocates involves taking money and providing false statements in the name of officials,” he said.

Furthermore, he highlighted several pieces of evidence and witness testimonies that strengthen the allegations of fraud and/or embezzlement in the case.

“We are concerned that young advocates will follow in the footsteps of their seniors. Like a religious figure who knows it is wrong but does it anyway, how can they set an example for the next generation,” he stated.

According to Daniar, as part of civil society, LBH GP Ansor Bali has a moral responsibility to safeguard the integrity of the judicial system, including the noble office of the advocacy profession.

He stressed that advocates must act honestly, fairly, and responsibly in their profession and are prohibited from providing misleading information to clients.

“Violations of professional dignity are not merely ethical issues but can also have criminal implications,” Daniar said.

LBH GP Ansor Bali stated that it will continue to monitor the legal process to ensure it proceeds objectively, transparently, and free from abuse of authority.