Former Portuguese Prime Minister José Sócrates has experienced two legal defeats within the administrative court concerning his ongoing case. The court rejected an incident filed against the Portuguese Bar Association and refused to allow requested witnesses, including the president of the Bar Association. Judicial sources indicate that the likelihood of successfully challenging the appointment of a public defender for Sócrates is low. These rulings represent significant obstacles to Sócrates’ defense strategy. The case revolves around allegations of illicit enrichment and tax evasion. Further legal challenges are anticipated, but the recent decisions suggest a strengthening of the prosecution’s position. The court’s actions limit the scope of Sócrates’ ability to directly control the proceedings and present his case.