SOURCE : THE NATIONAL

ABU DHABI - Aug 03: The Judicial Department is to unveil a plan this week to improve access to the court system.

The anticipated changes in its strategy for 2008 to 2013 include increased public access to services, legal assistance for those in need, alternative means to settle lawsuits and electronic services for greater convenience. The plan is to be updated every five years.

Yousef Saeed al Ibri, the Abu Dhabi Attorney General, said the new strategy was based on the best international judicial practices.

“This will enhance Abu Dhabi’s judicial system to contribute to security, safety and justice,” he said.

Part of the strategy involves the modernisation of court facilities. A new court house under construction in the capital is due to be completed in three years.

Under the guidance of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, the Minister of Presidential Affairs and chairman of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, the multi-phase strategy aims to “safeguard the rule of law by ensuring justice, freedom and peace in society, and charts a course for developing a modern and efficient judicial system”, according to a statement released by the department yesterday.

It also aimed for judicial independence and fairness and integrity for all litigants, the statement said.

The plan was developed through a series of leadership workshops, court conferences, focus groups and international judicial study tours.

“Excellence shall be the criteria and principle upon which all services rely,” said Sultan Saeed al Badi, the under-secretary of the department.