Organizational and Procedural Aspects of the Institution of State Agent before the ECHR and ICJ: Some Romanian Perspectives

Being a State Agent before an international jurisdiction isa task of responsibility. A background of personal experienceis an advantage in explanation. This article tries to buildupon the author's experience as an Agent for Romania beforetwo quite different forums of international justice—theEuropean Court of Human Rights and the International Court ofJustice. As any institution, the institution of State Agententails a set of organizational and procedural requirementsto be met in order for the case(s) to be managed successfullytowards the solution of disputes. The selection of the Agent,of his home team, of his foreign counsel (if needed) is essential.The provision of sufficient financial resources as well as thedecision power, both as far as substantial and administrativeaspects involving the case(s), is also important. The in-depthknowledge of all procedural details and the way of making useof them, the respecting of deadlines, the realistic assessmentand fixing of time limits and also the manner of leading theteam are essential for a positive outcome of the proceedings.