A worrying situation
Judicial career planning has been the subject of criticism in recent times. In particular, the lack of generational relief and the replacement of magistrates in the higher instances have been highlighted. Both the Court of Courts and the Superior Court have had magistrates who have reached or are reaching the end of their careers. This situation has given rise to concern and seems to be being managed hastily and without adequate planning (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
The relief in the Superior Court
In the High Court, there have been several important retirements in recent times. Marie Conte and Yves Picod have already left the post, and Estragués has recently been appointed as president of the criminal court. In addition, Fátima Ramírez, who has important command tasks at the Girona Court, is another member of the jurisdiction. This situation has forced the court to settle with the civilian Jaume Tor as a member of the court (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
The relief in the Court of Courts
The Tribunal de Corts has also experienced significant retirements. Pijuan left the position a little less than a year ago, and will be joined by Jacques Richiardi, Enric Anglada and Concepcion Barón, who have prioritized the general cause of the ‘BPA case’. It is expected that these magistrates will retire after passing judgment.
The regulations on generational relief
The Qualified Law of Justice establishes that the Superior Council of Justice appoints the chairmen of the Superior Court with preference among the higher-ranking magistrates, once the president and the members of the Superior Court have been consulted. The duration of their mandate is equal to the duration of their mandate as magistrate and they can be renewed in this function only once (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
The current situation
Currently, the criminal chamber of the Superior Court is presided over by Estragués, the civil chamber by Jaume Tor and the administrative chamber by Albert Andrés Pereira, who also presides over the plenary session of the Superior Court of Justice when appropriate. In addition, the Tribunal de Corts has to deal with significant retirements. It is necessary to address this situation with adequate planning to ensure the proper functioning of the judicial system.