What next with the reform of expert witness regulations? New hourly rates and flat fees will be introduced
The article outlines proposed reforms and regulatory changes regarding expert witnesses in Poland, including new payment structures and certification procedures.
In Poland, proposed reforms regarding the regulations of expert witnesses aim to address a significant issue in the judicial system: the scarcity of available expert witnesses. The new legislation outlines changes in remuneration for these professionals, introducing hourly rates and fixed fees that are expected to attract more specialists into this field. This initiative was initially presented by former Justice Minister Adam Bodnar, but despite a completed draft last March, the anticipated regulations have not yet been implemented. Waldemar Żurek, the current minister, is now under pressure to expedite the process.
Additionally, the article highlights a simplified certification process for expert witnesses, which is designed to streamline the qualification of these essential professionals. However, concerns raised by the Criminal Law Codification Commission regarding the new regulations suggest potential risks and unintended consequences. The discussion also involves the controversial nature of opinions provided by private and court-appointed experts, which have historically sparked debate regarding their objectivity and reliability in legal proceedings.
Other non-financial mechanisms are also proposed to spark interest in the role of expert witness, showcasing the government's commitment to improving the judicial process. While the Ministry of Justice has plans to introduce these new laws, the timeline for their implementation remains uncertain. This situation points to a pressing need for reform in the Polish justice system, highlighting the complexities surrounding expert witness regulations and the implications they hold for the legal landscape.