“In the name of my client, I would like to categorically deny all charges against him,” Olmert’s lawyer Elie Zohar told the court. Sixty-four-year-old Olmert, who was present in court, is the first Israeli ex-premier to face criminal charges.
Olmert resigned as prime minister under pressure in September 2008 after police recommended he be indicted, but has always insisted on his innocence and told journalists on Friday he was confident the trial would vindicate him.
The court is due to start hearing testimony in the case on February 22 and is to hold three sessions a week.
If found guilty, Olmert could face time behind bars, although it is unclear exactly how much.
Published 21 December 2009, 16:59 IST