Spotlight Shifts to Star Lawyer as Venezuela’s President Faces US Court
When Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro appeared before a New York court on Monday, it wasn’t just the charges against him that drew attention—it was the identity of his defense lawyer. Standing alongside Maduro was Barry Pollack, a high-profile American trial attorney best known for representing WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange in his long-running and widely watched legal battle.
Pollack is a partner at the prominent Wall Street–based law firm Harris St. Laurent & Wechsler, located just minutes away from the federal courthouse where Maduro pleaded not guilty. The Venezuelan leader is facing grave accusations, including conspiracy linked to narco-terrorism, cocaine trafficking, and possession of heavy weapons. If convicted, these charges could result in a life sentence.
The US government has repeatedly described Maduro as a “narco-terrorist” and an “illegitimate president.” During the first hearing, Pollack challenged the legality of Maduro’s capture by US forces from Caracas over the weekend. He argued that as the sitting head of a sovereign nation, Maduro should be entitled to legal immunity under international law.
Within legal circles, Pollack is regarded as a formidable defense strategist. Influential legal rankings such as Chambers USA have praised him for his analytical depth and his ability to communicate effectively with juries. His reputation was further strengthened by his role in negotiating a complex international deal involving the US, UK, and Australia that eventually led to Julian Assange’s release in 2024.
Pollack has often stated that every defendant he represents is facing the most critical moment of their life, and guiding them through that crisis is a serious responsibility. He is particularly known for simplifying complex legal arguments so juries can consider perspectives beyond the prosecution’s narrative.
Over the years, Pollack has handled numerous high-stakes cases. He has secured acquittals in major matters, including a well-known case linked to the Enron scandal, and has helped overturn wrongful convictions. Alongside his courtroom work, he teaches at Georgetown University Law Center and has held senior positions in leading US criminal defense associations.
Whether Barry Pollack’s legal approach can help Nicolás Maduro navigate this unprecedented legal and political storm remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that this case is set to have lasting implications for both international law and global politics in the months ahead.