New Chief Judge Branko Vujačić Aims to Revolutionize Montenegrin Justice

The newly appointed Chief Judge of the Prekršajni sud in Podgorica, Branko Vujačić, has outlined ambitious plans to transform the court system in Montenegro. Faced with overwhelming case loads, a shortage of judges, and persistent operational challenges, Vujačić is determined to demonstrate that the judiciary serves the citizens effectively.

The Prekršajni sud, the busiest court in Montenegro, has been grappling with chronic issues for years. These include a significant influx of cases, an overburdened judiciary, inadequate enforcement personnel, delays in proceedings, and low rates of fine collection. Vujačić, who views his judicial role as both a privilege and a responsibility, believes that these challenges can be addressed through better organizational practices, enhanced cooperation with other institutions, and improved communication with the public.

Digitalization is at the forefront of Vujačić’s strategy. He highlights the potential for online payment systems for fines as a means to streamline administrative processes and increase efficiency. This move is expected to alleviate some of the burdens currently faced by court staff and to provide a more responsive service for citizens.

Challenges Facing the Prekršajni Sud

Vujačić acknowledges that the Prekršajni sud has faced significant challenges, particularly regarding the volume of cases. Over the past two years, the court has seen nearly 17,000 new cases filed, which translates to an average of approximately 1,609 cases per judge annually. The situation is exacerbated by a shortage of enforcement officers and judicial trainees, leading to delays and procedural difficulties. Vujačić points out that many cases are often stalled due to the inability to secure the presence of parties involved, further complicating the judicial process.

In terms of outcomes, Vujačić admits that the court has not achieved satisfactory results regarding case resolutions or collection of imposed fines. He notes a concerning number of cases that have been suspended due to procedural delays. “This cannot become a trend,” he emphasizes, as he aims to implement organizational changes to improve these outcomes.

Enhancing Public Perception and Collaboration

Addressing the public’s perception of the judiciary, Vujačić believes that many citizens are unaware of the significant role that the Prekršajni sud plays in maintaining public order. He argues that the court handles a wide array of offenses, including those related to domestic violence, tax violations, and public health regulations. By raising awareness about these issues, he hopes to foster a better understanding of the court’s functions and its importance in society.

Vujačić is also focused on strengthening collaboration with other state bodies, particularly the Ministry of Interior. He identifies the need for effective communication regarding the enforcement of court orders, which is critical for the timely administration of justice. This collaboration is intended to prevent procedural delays that could lead to case stagnation.

To further enhance the court’s operational efficiency, Vujačić plans to establish regular communication with the media and non-governmental organizations. He recognizes that proactive engagement with the public and stakeholders will be essential in promoting transparency and building trust in the judiciary. “We need to establish a continuous dialogue with media outlets to keep them informed about the court’s activities and challenges,” he states.

Vujačić concludes by emphasizing his commitment to improving the judicial system and ensuring that it meets the needs of the public. He envisions a court that not only processes cases efficiently but also upholds the principles of justice and transparency, ultimately working towards restoring public confidence in the judiciary. The upcoming digital innovations and online payment systems will be crucial to achieving these goals, paving the way for a more effective legal framework in Montenegro.