Geir Lippestad, born on June 7, 1964, in Bærum, Norway, is a prominent Norwegian lawyer, politician, and social activist. He rose to international prominence as the defense attorney for Anders Behring Breivik, the perpetrator of the 2011 Norway attacks, during the 2012 trial. Lippestad's decision to represent Breivik was highly controversial, but he emphasized the importance of ensuring a fair trial and upholding democratic principles, even for the most reviled individuals. The case brought significant media attention and personal challenges to Lippestad, including threats to his family, yet he has reflected on it as a duty-bound role in the justice system. Throughout his legal career, Lippestad has handled numerous high-profile cases, often involving human rights, labor disputes, and public interest matters, establishing himself as a defender of the underprivileged and a critic of systemic injustices. Beyond the courtroom, Lippestad has been deeply engaged in politics and activism. He founded the centrist political party Sentrum in 2020, aiming to foster dialogue and unity in a polarized political landscape, drawing on his experiences with societal divisions highlighted by the Breivik case. Previously, he served as a municipal councilor in Bærum and has been involved in various social initiatives, including anti-racism efforts and support for immigrants. Lippestad is also a partner in the law firm Lippestad & Co., where he focuses on civil and criminal law. His work extends to writing and public speaking on topics like democracy, extremism, and legal ethics, making him a key voice in Norwegian discourse on social cohesion. Lippestad's personal life reflects his commitment to community; he is married with children and resides in Bærum, where he has deep roots. He has openly discussed the psychological impact of high-stakes cases on his well-being and family, advocating for better support for legal professionals. Despite controversies surrounding his Breivik defense—criticized by some as legitimizing extremism—Lippestad maintains that his actions reinforced the rule of law, earning him respect in legal circles while polarizing public opinion.