Nicholas Kaufman Officially Appointed to Duterte’s ICC Case, Confident of Acquittal

THE International Criminal Court (ICC) finally announced on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, the official appointment of Nicholas Kaufman as the legal counsel of former President Rodrigo Duterte. 

Following this, the British-Israeli lawyer voiced strong confidence in Duterte’s acquittal, even in the case’s early stages. 

He is now in the process of organizing Duterte’s legal defense, though specific names have yet to be confirmed. 

“There was a need, first of all, for a senior counsel to be appointed, a counsel who has experience with matters of the ICC, and it’s that counsel’s job to compose the team. It’s early days yet, no one is entitled to draw any conclusion whatsoever from what has been and what hasn’t been done with respect to nominations at this point in time,” said Kaufman during his first interview with the Philippine media on Tuesday. 

Kaufman also said that they were open to be joined by a Filipino lawyer for the case. 

“There’s an essential element of any case at the International Criminal Court that there’s a need for foreign lawyers. So, there would definitely be the involvement of Filipino lawyers. I need them,” said Kaufman during an interview with GMA. 

He also hinted at some potential legal petitions but has not revealed details about the defense strategy.

Kaufman is known for his strategic approach, representing high-profile cases of individuals accused of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other serious offenses.

Duterte’s initial appearance happened last week where he attended the pre-trial via video link. He was represented then by former Executive Secretary of the Philippines, Salvador Medialdea. He was charged by ICC with crime against humanity, particularly murder, related to his administration’s anti-drug campaign from November 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019. 

The ICC alleges that Duterte is criminally responsible for orchestrating a widespread and systematic attack against the civilian population during this period.

Meanwhile, Kaufman expressed confidence not only in Duterte’s acquittal but also in securing his return home.

As the case remains in its early stages, Kaufman’s expertise in international law is expected to be instrumental in shaping Duterte’s defense at the ICC.