3,423 Judges and Prosecutors Unexpectedly Relocate – Breaking News from Turkey
New Decree by the Council of Judges and Prosecutors Published, Making Changes to Judicial Positions
In a recent development, the First Chamber of the Council of Judges and Prosecutors (HSK) has published a new decree that affects a significant number of judicial and administrative judges and prosecutors. The decree, which can be accessed on the institution’s website, details the changes in key positions for 3,036 judicial and 387 administrative judges and prosecutors.
The decree brings about a reshuffling of chief prosecutors in various provinces and districts. Adıyaman, Ağrı, Aydın, Bingöl, Denizli, Elazığ, Giresun, Hatay, Isparta, İzmir, Kahramanmaraş, Malatya, Manisa, Mardin, Muş, Niğde, Şırnak, Trabzon, Uşak, and Van, along with 38 districts, will have new chief prosecutors as a result of this decree. Notably, the Chief Public Prosecutor has been appointed to the Karasu Courthouse for the first time.
The decree also focuses on enhancing the efficiency of the judicial system. Specifically, 118 appointments were made to serve as heads of heavy penal courts. Moreover, to address the needs in earthquake-prone areas, plans have been put in place to establish 5 heavy criminal courts, 39 civil courts of first instance, 11 consumer courts, and 9 civil courts of peace. To support these new courts, an additional 61 judges have been appointed to these districts. The aim is to improve the performance of courts in handling possible lawsuits related to earthquake-related matters.
Commenting on the new decree, Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç expressed his belief that the 2023 Judicial and Administrative Judicial Decree of the Council of Judges and Prosecutors would benefit the country and the judicial organization. He wished all judges and prosecutors success in their new roles and extended his well wishes to their families. Minister Tunç reaffirmed the commitment of working collaboratively with colleagues at all levels to elevate the efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial system.
This latest decree by the Council of Judges and Prosecutors highlights the ongoing efforts to streamline and strengthen the judicial system in Turkey. The changes in key positions and the establishment of new courts demonstrate a proactive approach to address the evolving needs of the legal system and provide better access to justice for citizens. As these changes take effect, it remains to be seen how they will contribute to the overall functioning of the judiciary and enhance the efficiency of the courts.
