A criminal case was launched on 8 July 2000 after the suicide of Jean-Marie Lorand, who was accompanied by his doctor. On 6 June 2005 the Appeal Court of Mons finally dismissed the case.
Mr Lorand wanted to publicise his wish to die peacefully. In 2000, when a change in the law was only under discussion, it took a great deal of courage for his doctor to keep his promise to Jean-Marie to accompany him on whatever day he chose. His courage and his sense of responsibility have been respected by the legal authorities. His name has not been released and so he has been able to continue his professional work and his private life without media intrusion.
Source: Newsletter RtD-Europe, September 2005.