Lay judges assist the court. The system began during the Soviet era.
Lay judges are ordinary people. They participate in court decisions. They must know the Estonian language.
Lay judges are chosen by local governments. Their training is brief.
Currently, there are 362 lay judges in Estonia. They come from various walks of life.
Court decisions are made through voting. Lay judges have significant power.
The system needs to be changed. There is a plan to eliminate or reduce lay judges.