Law Students as Judges' Assistants? The Senate Amends the Law
The Polish Senate has approved amendments allowing law students to serve as junior assistants to judges after their third year of studies.
The Polish Senate has moved forward with a bill that amends the law governing the structure of common courts, allowing law students who have completed their third year to assist judges as junior assistants. This role is seen as a significant shift from traditional assistant positions, potentially providing law students with practical experience while supporting the judiciary. In a recent vote, 85 senators supported the amendment, highlighting broad political consensus on the issue.
The amendment aims to address the growing demand for support within the judicial system, where judges often face heavy workloads. Opponents of the proposal raise concerns about the qualifications of students being involved in judicial processes, arguing that it may undermine the professionalism of the court system. Supporters, including the Ministry of Justice, argue that this initiative will enhance young people's engagement in legal professions and provide them with valuable insights into the workings of the courts.
With this legislative change, additional discussions are expected regarding the compensation structure for these junior assistants. As part of the new framework, salary changes for judicial assistants are anticipated in the near future, reflecting the evolving nature of their roles in the judicial process. The next step is for the amended proposal to be reviewed by the Sejm, the lower house of Poland's parliament, which will be crucial in determining the implementation of this important legal reform.