The Ministry of Justice has thus completed the process of updating and modernizing the procedures. The one hundred and twelve judicial parties existing in Spain already work electronically.
THE ELECTRONIC JUDICIAL FILE
The electronic file is one of the essential points of this process of modernization of the administrative scope of Justice. In June 2011, the National Court became the first body to dispose of the electronic judicial file.
This Chamber, together with some other courts, has been the scenario for the pilot experience. When the system was tested, it was extended to all judicial parties.
The digitization implies a change in the format of the file and the way to process it. It is no longer just a bunch of leaves, whose size grows as the process progresses.
The uncomfortable transfers, the schedules and the personnel disposition are eliminated to deliver it to those who request the consultation. With this, the deterioration of the permanence in files and the contact with the hands of the users is reduced.
The file is now a set of information in electronic format. From any digital device it can be consulted and follow the status of its processing. It is a great leap for the whole system, for institutions, for professionals and for users and citizens.
THE CONTENT OF THE FILE
What does an electronic judicial file contain? The same as a paper:
- Digitized or electronic documents from their origin
- Metadata, which are identifiers of issues and procedures.
- Electronic index that links all the contents of the file.
- Digital signature that validates the document.
BENEFITS OF DIGITAL JUSTICE
Technology has become a tool that enhances comfort and safety. This is one of the obvious advantages of using this new system in the judicial field. The visits to the courts, the long waiting times and the discomfort of the spaces are no longer necessary to consult a file.
The digital system allows all those interested in the same cause to consult at the same time, if they so wish, a file. With this possibility, the exchanges of opinion between the interveners are enabled, with the original file in sight
The processing of procedures is streamlined. In addition to the change in the files, the digital system implies the obligation of communication by electronic means, between the courts and legal operators. The notifications, written of beginning and of procedures, are integrated to the system.
A rationalization of resources is achieved. Less paper, less mobilization of files, and the optimization of the necessary human resources.
As we see, the objective is the improvement of public service, and a more agile, transparent, better connected and more accessible Justice. These goals, in practice, are being fulfilled little by little; this is confirmed by the opinions of most operators.
Although some criticisms are also being generated, in general there is a favorable opinion about the Digital Justice system.
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