Elisabeth Margue outlines judicial reforms

Margue emphasised the imperative to address various challenges hindering judicial efficacy. Among these challenges, she underscored the critical issue of staffing shortages. In response, the government has committed to recruiting 200 judges over the next six years, a strategy initially set in motion by Margue's predecessor, Sam Tanson. Margue disclosed that several legislative amendments were endorsed by the responsible parliamentary committee earlier in the week.

Furthermore, Margue outlined plans to broaden eligibility criteria for aspiring judges, extending opportunities to law graduates without prior bar experience. The draft legislation facilitating this expansion is "nearly ready" to make its way through the legislative process, Margue announced.

With regards to judges' salaries, Margue indicated a deliberate stance by the government to monitor the impact of former Minister of Justice Sam Tanson's reforms on the profession's appeal before contemplating any changes.

The Minister is actively considering creating a parallel career within the magistrature to allow people to enter based on their professional experience. However, Margue acknowledged the challenges in creating a "fair" system.

Margue affirmed the government's commitment to maintaining the Diekirch District Court, underlining the importance of ensuring accessibility to judicial services without imposing undue travel burdens on citizens.

Simplification of legal procedures, coupled with the imposition of clear deadlines for civil and administrative processes, is another strategy championed by Margue to expedite judicial proceedings and mitigate protracted litigation.

In an effort to enhance accessibility and efficiency within the judiciary, Margue emphasised the need for further digitalisation initiatives, aimed at reducing the necessity for physical travel. She revealed that multiple projects aimed at digitalising procedures are already underway.

While advocating for the implementation of summary proceedings, Margue stressed the importance of upholding the rights of all parties involved. For the Minister, it is not about "getting people in front of a judge within hours." Instead, Margue proposed a revised approach, aiming to resolve such cases within a matter of weeks, contingent upon the consent of the individuals concerned. Additionally, Margue proposed renaming comparution immédiate ("summary proceedings") to procedure accélérée ("accelerated procedure").

Addressing spatial constraints within judicial offices and the Cité judiciaire, Margue acknowledged the current recourse to renting nearby buildings as a temporary solution. However, challenges persist, notably the delayed availability of the former national library building for occupation. While Margue is not questioning the choice of location in the city centre, she stressed the need for long-term spatial plans.

In the realm of youth protection and juvenile penal law, Margue outlined intentions to align Luxembourg with international standards by the end of 2024. She confirmed the existence of initial drafts for a youth prison, emphasising a distinct approach to rehabilitation compared to adult facilities.

Exploring technological innovations for monitoring individuals, Margue highlighted the potential use of electric bracelets equipped with GPS localisation. A feasibility study is slated to evaluate the viability of employing such bracelets, particularly in cases of domestic violence.

Margue also addressed ongoing debates surrounding the legality of begging, expressing a commitment to clarifying the legal landscape through comprehensive reform. For instance, several elements are to be taken out of the law, while aggressive begging is to remain subject to penalties.