The highly anticipated corruption trial of former Portuguese Prime Minister José Sócrates commenced on July 3, 2025, in Lisbon, marking the first time a former prime minister in Portugal faces such charges. Sócrates, a socialist leader, is accused of benefiting from approximately 34 million euros and faces a total of 22 criminal charges related to the case known as Operação Marquês. The trial includes more than 20 other defendants and involves over 500 witnesses. During the proceedings, Sócrates has denied any wrongdoing and sought to dismiss the case. Tensions arose when Sócrates accused the Attorney General of the Republic of making a "dishonest statement," a claim the Attorney General refuted, clarifying that Sócrates was not required to prove anything. Additionally, Sócrates' defense team has attempted to remove the presiding judge and prosecutors from the case. The trial has drawn significant attention as a landmark legal process in Portugal’s fight against political corruption.