The Head of the Judiciary stated that shortening judicial procedures is a fundamental principle to facilitate and accelerate public access to justice. While some of these procedural reductions require legislative changes and reforms, many can be implemented through strategic measures and planning.
Mohseni Ejei, in his speech at the closing ceremony of the national conference of heads of justice departments—focused on judicial oversight and unifying legal procedures of the Supreme Court—elaborated on methods to prevent prolonged litigation and reduce the influx of cases into the judiciary.
He emphasized that shortening judicial processes is essential for facilitating and accelerating the people’s access to justice. Some reductions require legislation, but many can be achieved through practical strategies and measures.
The Chief Justice noted: “At times, our judges are given two or three additional assignments, and they must issue rulings with precision, speed, and thoroughness despite the heavy caseload. This is where the value of a judge’s revolutionary spirit, compassion, concern, and legal expertise becomes apparent. We, on our part, must provide the necessary environment for up-to-date and in-service training for judges. Judicial training must involve innovation and creativity and should be aligned with modern technological requirements—we cannot train judges using methods from a decade ago.”
Mohseni Ejei asserted: “We are fully opening up the judicial structure to allow capable, young, energetic individuals who are in tune with the demands of the time to take positions. We firmly believe that being in a higher judicial position does not necessarily mean a person has greater legal understanding or insight than their peers.”
The Head of the Judiciary added: “One method for shortening judicial procedures and preventing delays in litigation is ensuring accuracy in determining jurisdiction. A judge should not hold onto a case for two months and then announce that it is outside their jurisdiction. From the moment a case is assigned, the judge must carefully examine whether it falls within their jurisdiction.”
In conclusion, the Chief Justice offered recommendations to judicial officials and said: “All officials, authorities, and judicial colleagues must pay special attention to safeguarding the integrity of the judiciary. If we see that a colleague is on the verge of making a mistake, we must reach out and advise them—not with the intent of catching them out or bringing them down, but with sincere goodwill.”