Improving Relations between the Legal Profession and the Judiciary: The Role of CRAJs

The Commissions for Relations with the Judiciary (CRAJs) represent a crucial component in the collaborative framework between Bar Associations and judicial entities. These commissions, established institutionally, aim to optimize and strengthen ties with the Judiciary, fostering a more efficient and transparent environment for the benefit of the public.

Collaboration between both parties is materialized through the signing of protocols that establish the creation of joint commissions, where representatives from Bar Associations convene alongside judges, prosecutors, court clerks, and members of law enforcement agencies. This joint effort seeks to identify potential deficiencies in judicial services and, simultaneously, establish more agile and direct channels of communication to address complaints, issues, or suggestions that may arise.

CRAJs perform several key functions that significantly contribute to the improvement of the justice system:

1. Direct Communication at a High Level: These commissions enable the establishment of fluid and direct communication with all representatives of the Judiciary, including Chief Judges, Presidents of Provincial Courts, the Prosecution, and Heads of Law Enforcement Agencies.

2. Regular Meetings for Coordination: Periodic meetings are held where the most significant failure indicators are analyzed in a coordinated manner, facilitating the identification of areas for improvement and the implementation of effective solutions.

3. Bilateral Relationship for Feedback: They establish a bilateral relationship that allows the exchange of complaints and suggestions between both parties, thus promoting a constant flow of feedback for the smooth functioning of the judicial system.

4. Immediate Awareness of Relevant Issues: CRAJs provide members with immediate knowledge of issues that are being addressed for improvement, allowing them to stay informed and actively participate in the continuous improvement process.

5. Increased Representation in Inspections: By acting as a unified collective, CRAJs provide greater strength to actively intervene in inspections carried out by the General Council of the Judiciary (CGPJ), ensuring a more equitable representation of the interests of the legal profession.

6. Anticipation of Potential Problems: Thanks to their proactive work, CRAJs have the ability to anticipate potential problems, facilitating the immediate resolution of conflicts and avoiding delays that could affect the smooth functioning of the Judiciary.

In conclusion, the Commissions for Relations with the Judiciary play a fundamental role in building a more efficient, transparent, and service-oriented judicial system. Their collaborative and proactive work represents a firm commitment to the continuous improvement of the justice system, thus ensuring access to quality justice for all citizens.