The part of the court reform that envisages merging courts into one is not well thought out. The heads of district courts do not understand what this is supposed to improve. Justice Minister Liisa Pakosta says that the reform will help with the specialization of judges and speeding up proceedings.
The Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs plans to create three nationwide courts. Currently, there are four district courts, two administrative courts, and two circuit courts. Many judges are against this. The district courts are particularly concerned, believing that the merger will shift the administration of justice towards Tallinn.
The district courts do not understand where the efficiency of the judiciary comes from. They do not understand why the ministry does not listen to their suggestions. Marek Vahing, chairman of the Tartu District Court, says that the judges' opinions are not being heard, and opinions are being sought elsewhere.
Toomas Talviste, chairman of the Pärnu District Court, says that the reform does not have broad support among judges. Most judges do not support the reform because they do not understand why it is being rushed. Vahing adds that the reform will not solve the heavy workload of judges.
Justice Minister Pakosta says that there are both pros and cons in the court system. The need for court reform comes from the courts themselves, not from the ministry. The merger of courts arises from the development plan of the courts.
The specialization of judges could lead to longer processing times. Talviste says that specialization would be good if more decisions were overturned, but the reality is the opposite. Pakosta says that specialization increases expertise and speed.
The courts are concerned that the reform will shift the administration of justice towards Tallinn. Pau says that a smaller population should not mean the closure of a court. Pakosta says that regionally, the situation will improve because court buildings will remain the same.
The reform will not reduce the travel of judges. Talviste says that judges will have to travel more. Pakosta says that the share of video and written proceedings will increase.
The management of judges and the merger of courts were recommended to be written into one bill. Pakosta says that the constitution allows for the merging of courts. Vahing says that the current system works well and does not need to be changed.