French lawyer Isabelle Coutant-Peyre, known for defending high-profile clients such as serial killer Charles Sobhraj and terrorist Carlos, has passed away at the age of 70 after battling cancer. Over her forty-five-year career, she represented a variety of controversial figures, including Dieudonné M’Bala M’Bala, Gabriel Matzneff, and Ali Riza Polat. Coutant-Peyre, who described herself as a “young woman from a good family,” had a conventional life before becoming a lawyer, with three children from her marriage to Michel Peyre.
In 1979, Coutant-Peyre became a lawyer specializing in business law, and it was during this time that she met the notorious attorney Jacques Vergès. Despite sharing a level of audacity with Vergès, she did not consider him her mentor. In 1997, she met Ilich Ramirez Sanchez, also known as Carlos, in a prison corridor, a moment she later detailed in her book “Epouser Carlos.” The book portrays their encounter in a highly romanticized manner, with Sanchez proposing to her and both reciting the Fatiha to seal their commitment. Coutant-Peyre viewed Carlos as a political figure rather than a criminal, comparing him to Nelson Mandela as a freedom fighter and revolutionary.
During a television talk show in March 2004, Coutant-Peyre spoke about the deep emotions and intellectual connection she shared with Carlos, highlighting their strong bond. She was known for her zealous defense of her clients, often pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. Coutant-Peyre’s unorthodox approach to her legal practice brought her both acclaim and controversy, with her representing individuals involved in high-profile criminal cases and terrorism-related charges.
Throughout her career, Coutant-Peyre faced criticism for her defense of clients who were considered enemies of the state or involved in heinous crimes. Despite this, she remained dedicated to providing legal representation to those in need, advocating for justice and fair treatment under the law. Her work with individuals like Charles Sobhraj brought attention to the complexities of the legal system and the importance of ensuring that all individuals have access to a defense, regardless of their background or the severity of their alleged crimes.
Isabelle Coutant-Peyre’s passing marks the end of a career marked by boldness, controversy, and a relentless dedication to fighting for the rights of her clients. Her legacy as a fearless advocate will continue to inspire those in the legal profession and beyond to uphold the principles of justice and fairness in the pursuit of truth and equality for all. Coutant-Peyre’s impact on the French legal landscape and her representation of some of society’s most notorious figures will be remembered as a testament to her unwavering commitment to defending those who often faced overwhelming odds in their pursuit of justice.
