Polish Justice Minister Appeals for Swift Appointment of Young Lawyers

Poland's Minister of Justice, Waldemar Żurek, has urged the President's office to expedite the appointment of over 200 young lawyers who have successfully passed their judicial exams. These aspiring judges are currently unable to begin their service because they await formal appointment by the president. Minister Żurek stated that these individuals are crucial for alleviating the backlog in Poland's courts. He calculated that if all these lawyers were to take their positions, the courts could issue an additional 10,500 judgments monthly. Żurek met with representatives of these young legal professionals, noting that many have already secured housing in the cities where they wish to serve. He expressed concern that the delay is a "disgrace for the Polish state," as these qualified individuals are forced to register as unemployed to receive social benefits, and their stipends have ceased. The minister stressed the importance of enabling these "young, excellent lawyers" to begin their judicial duties, emphasizing their potential to support the overburdened system and serve the Republic. According to the Constitution, judges are appointed by the president upon the recommendation of the National Council of the Judiciary.

“

Without this, they cannot start working in the courts. Many of them have already rented apartments in the towns where the courts they have chosen are located. This is a large group, over 200 people. If all of them were to sit on the judge's bench, we would have – mind you – 10,500 judgments issued monthly.