Éric Dupond-Moretti, born on April 20, 1961, in Maubeuge, France, is a prominent French-Italian lawyer and politician, currently serving as the Minister of Justice under President Emmanuel Macron. Known for his unyielding defense of clients and a remarkable number of acquittals, he has earned the nickname “Acquittator.” With a career that spans over three decades, Dupond-Moretti has defended numerous high-profile figures and has established himself as a formidable presence in the French legal system.
Early Life
Éric is the only child of Jean-Pierre Dupond, a metalworker, and Elena Moretti, a housekeeper of Italian descent. After losing his father at the tender age of four, Dupond-Moretti was raised by his mother in a modest environment. His childhood experiences of hardship and a profound sense of injustice profoundly shaped his ambition to become a lawyer, reminiscent of other notable French criminal lawyers like Robert Badinter.
He attended the Catholic Lycée Notre-Dame in Valenciennes, where he completed his baccalauréat before embarking on a journey to pursue law. His formative years, coupled with family tragedies—such as his maternal grandfather’s suspicious death—ignited a passion for criminal law that would guide his career.
Career as a Defense Lawyer
Dupond-Moretti was admitted to the bar on December 11, 1984, in Douai and began his legal career in Lille. He quickly gained a reputation for his courtroom prowess, securing over 145 acquittals by 2019, which contributed to his “Acquittator” moniker—a blend of “acquittal” and “matador.” Throughout his career, he has represented a variety of controversial clients, including aid group Zoé’s Ark, Jérôme Kerviel, and Julian Assange.
His public persona is characterized by his outspoken nature, often clashing with judicial authorities and drawing media attention for his remarks on legal matters. Dupond-Moretti has authored several books that delve into the intricacies of law, including Bête noire (2012) and Directs du droit (2017).
Political Career
On July 6, 2020, Dupond-Moretti was appointed Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals in Prime Minister Jean Castex’s government, a choice that surprised many observers. During his tenure, he advocated for reforms to strengthen the judicial system, emphasizing the need for more severe sentencing for minor offenses and proposing new laws addressing child sexual abuse in response to scandals involving prominent figures.
Despite his reformative efforts, his time as Minister of Justice has been marked by controversies, including an investigation into allegations of misconduct related to his judicial interactions. He faced scrutiny during the Lola affair, where his ministry was criticized for its handling of immigration issues linked to a high-profile crime.
Personal Life
Dupond-Moretti married Hélène in 1991, with whom he shares two children, but the couple divorced in 2016. Since then, he has been in a relationship with Canadian singer Isabelle Boulay. A passionate hunter, he owns a Flemish farmhouse and has a keen interest in falconry.
In a notable display of independence, Dupond-Moretti declined the prestigious Legion of Honour, asserting his pride in being a lawyer and his commitment to speaking his mind. He is also known for his defense of bullfighting, reflecting his multifaceted interests outside the courtroom.
Legacy and Influence
Éric Dupond-Moretti remains a significant figure in contemporary French law and politics. His blend of legal acumen, controversial client roster, and unorthodox approach to justice continues to shape discussions around criminal law in France. As he navigates the complexities of his ministerial role, Dupond-Moretti’s journey from a humble background to a powerful legal and political voice exemplifies the ongoing evolution of France’s legal landscape.
