Informatization of the Civil Justice System in Poland: An Overview of Recent Changes

Abstract

In this contribution the author presents recent changes in the administration of justice in Poland, in particular civil litigation, involving the use of information technology (IT) systems. The introduction and expansion of such systems seems only natural, if not belated, in societies which have already embraced this phenomenon in other areas of life. While a sociologist or psychologist could argue over how this adversely affects humans or human interactions, the benefits of instant access to online or digital sources are there for everyone to see and experience. In the area of law some developments, such as the digitalization of public registers or access to judicial decisions, are clearly beneficial. Others, in particular in the area of civil litigation, are more complex or problematic due to, arguably, the very nature of procedural principles, most of which originated in the 19th century, in the times of quill pens and paper. Still, while the process surely brings its own challenges, they should not be a reason to stop, or should they be? As will be seen from the discussion below, investments in IT require prudent decision-making since what is useful (and costly) today may be obsolete tomorrow. Much attention should be paid while making such decisions because ultimately IT systems can hardly be perceived as a remedy to ever-present delays in the administration of justice.