Polish Law Change Gives Judges More Power

In 2024, Poland passed a new law that gives more power to judges in civil cases. This law allows judges to decide more freely on how cases are handled in court. It also gives them more control over how fast a case moves forward.

Before this change, civil cases in Poland could take a long time—sometimes even years. Lawyers often complained that the system was slow and full of paperwork. Now, with the new law, judges can make faster decisions about what evidence is needed and when hearings should happen.

Many lawyers in Poland think this is a good step. They believe that the courts will work faster and be more fair. Some lawyers, however, are worried. They say that giving judges too much control might lead to mistakes or unfair treatment. For example, one lawyer said, “If a judge can choose to ignore certain evidence, the case may not be fully fair.”

This law also means that lawyers must be better prepared. Judges will not wait as long for missing documents or unclear arguments. Lawyers will need to come to court with everything ready on the first day.

Some people say this change brings Polish law closer to systems in Western Europe, where judges already have more power. Others think it is a risk and want more rules to protect fairness.

Only time will tell if this change will help Poland’s legal system or make things more difficult. But one thing is clear—lawyers and judges will have to adjust.

Discussion Questions

1. Do you think giving judges more power is a good idea? Why or why not?

2. How can this law make civil cases faster or slower?

3. What are the risks of giving one person (a judge) more control over a case?

4. In your country, who has more power in court—the judge or the lawyers?

5. What are some ways to make court systems more fair and efficient?