Serbia Debates Judicial Academy Law, Minister Assures Venice Commission Compliance

The Serbian Parliament convened a public hearing to discuss the proposed Law on the Judicial Academy, a legislative initiative aimed at refining the selection process for judges and prosecutors. Minister of Justice Nenad Vujić emphasized that the draft law fully complies with the standards set by the Venice Commission.

Vujić clarified that the proposed legislation does not interfere with the jurisdictions of the High Judicial Council or the High Prosecutorial Council. "The Academy does not elect judges and public prosecutors, it does not appoint them and does not decide on their selection. Its role is to ensure quality training," he stated during the hearing.

Under the new law, the Administrative Board of the Judicial Academy will comprise 11 members: nine judges and prosecutors, one university professor or research associate, and one Academy employee. The Program Council will be expanded to 17 members, including seven judges, five public prosecutors, and representatives from judicial and prosecutorial assistants, as well as the state secretaries from the Ministries of Finance and Justice.

A significant amendment concerns the preliminary training program, which leads to a certificate of expertise and qualification. The duration of this training will vary based on a candidate's prior work experience. Those with up to two years of experience post-judicial exam will undergo a two-year training program. Candidates with two to four years will have a one-year program, those with four to six years will have a six-month program, and individuals with over six years of experience will complete a three-month program.

“

The Academy does not elect judges and public prosecutors, it does not appoint them and does not decide on their selection. Its role is to ensure quality training.