Ruben Vardanyan's lawyers seem to have finally begun to understand the gravity of the situation they are in. Armenian media has published a statement from his foreign lawyers warning that Vardanyan faces 45 charges.

"According to these charges, Vardanyan could face a punishment of up to life in prison," the lawyers and journalists warn, trying to frighten readers.

It seems like this came as a surprise to Vardanyan's lawyers. Didn't your client inform you about this?

Is anyone really surprised? The crimes Vardanyan is accused of are among the most serious under the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan.

Or did Vardanyan's lawyers seriously believe he would get away with just a fine?