First Trial (2004-2005)

The first trial of Khodorkovsky and Lebedev began in June 2004 and concluded in May 2005. Independent observers noted that the defendants were subjected to injustices in the interpretation and application of Russian law, while the authorities concurrently pursued an attack on Yukos through the pretext of reassessments of the company’s tax payments. The Meshchansky Court found both men guilty of almost every charge, sentencing them to nine years in prison, a sentence subsequently reduced by the Moscow City Court to eight years during an otherwise unsuccessful appeal process in September 2005.

For more information about the First Trial please click here