Former Justice Minister Éric Dupond-Moretti Convicted of Defamation

Paris – 22.06.2026: The former French Justice Minister Éric Dupond-Moretti was found guilty today by a Paris court of publicly defaming former investigative judge Édouard Levrault. Dupond-Moretti had accused Levrault of violating the secrecy of an investigation in a case where he himself acted as defense counsel.

The conviction is based on statements Dupond-Moretti made in a 2024 interview, in which he alleged that Levrault had leaked information from an ongoing proceeding to the press. These accusations were rejected by Levrault as unfounded and damaging to his reputation.

The trial attracted significant public attention due to the prominent positions of those involved and the seriousness of the charges. Dupond-Moretti, who served as Justice Minister from 2020 to 2024, had repeatedly stirred controversy during his tenure, notably through his sharp criticism of certain judges and prosecutors.

Levrault, who had investigated several high-profile cases in the past, expressed relief after the verdict and emphasized the importance of protecting investigative secrecy for the integrity of the judiciary. He stated that the defamation suit was aimed not only at his personal reputation but also at the standing of the entire judicial authority.

Dupond-Moretti, known for his striking and often polarizing remarks, expressed disappointment with the judgment and announced plans to appeal. His lawyers argued that his statements were made in the course of his professional activities as a lawyer and minister, and thus were protected by freedom of expression.

The conviction of Dupond-Moretti raises questions once again about the relationship between politics and the judiciary in France. Critics accuse him of using his political power to pressure the judiciary and settle personal conflicts. Supporters, however, stress the necessity to safeguard the independence of the judiciary and to take such allegations seriously.

The ruling is expected to trigger wide-ranging discussions about the limits of freedom of expression and the responsibilities of politicians towards the judiciary. It remains to be seen how the case will impact Dupond-Moretti’s political career and public trust in the French justice system.

In the past, Dupond-Moretti had already faced other legal challenges. In November 2023, he was acquitted by the Cour de Justice de la République on charges of abuse of office. At that time, the court ruled that there were no “intentional elements” in his conduct.

However, today’s conviction could mark the end of his political career, especially if the appeal fails. It underlines the importance of preserving the independence of the judiciary and the need for politicians to choose their statements carefully in order to maintain public trust in state institutions.