Ricardo Álvarez-Ossorio is a 52-year-old lawyer known as the “devil’s advocate” for representing major figures in organized crime. Born in Vigo, he was raised in Cádiz by a merchant marine father. Despite wanting to study Computer Science, he ended up studying Law. He gained recognition for his work in cases such as Scrinium, related to the fiduciary society of the Vatican’s secret archives. He has also defended high-profile clients like Cándido Conde-Pumpido. His Instagram account showcases a lavish lifestyle with images of luxury cars, exotic landscapes, and numerous awards. He inspired the character in the series Marbella, based on a report published in El País.
On his approach to cases, Ricardo mentions that while he has been offered to engage in illegal activities, he has never crossed that line. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining professionalism and integrity in his work. He recalls his first case as a lawyer, where he paid bail for a hashish trafficker, which led to a significant financial gain. Ricardo’s career has seen tremendous success, bringing him financial prosperity, although he faced challenges like tax inspections.
Ricardo discusses the dynamics of his profession, emphasizing that the financial resources of a criminal can influence the outcome of a case. He believes that access to specialized legal representation can impact a person’s chances of freedom. Over the years, Ricardo estimates having avoided thousands of prison sentences for his clients through unexpected outcomes in their cases. He mentions that he has never defended a case where the victim was completely innocent, highlighting the complexity of navigating criminal law.
Reflecting on the evolution of his client base, Ricardo notes the diverse nationalities represented among his clients, ranging from Europeans to Americans and Mexicans. His clientele has transitioned from small-time traffickers to high-profile figures in organized crime. Ricardo explains the different types of clients he encounters, including those who retire successfully and others who repeatedly fall back into criminal activities. He maintains a professional relationship with his clients, understanding the risks involved in forming personal connections with them.
Addressing concerns about insecurity in Marbella, Ricardo expresses worry about recent shootings in the area but believes that increased police presence could deter criminal activities. He touches on notable cases from his career, including representing Alex Male, a wanted drug trafficker, and his involvement in the EncroChat case, where he challenges the legality of certain procedures. Despite the complexities of his work, Ricardo remains committed to upholding the law and providing legal representation within ethical boundaries.
