The establishment of the Courts of Instance in Córdoba is viewed by legal professionals as a historic step, marking a radical transformation of the judicial system. However, one month after its inauguration, the process is still in an adaptation phase, with files being organized in their new locations.
Miguel Ángel Pareja, president of the Provincial Court of Córdoba, confirms that the reorganization has been profound, without affecting the jurisdictional function. He highlights that the Provincial Court has been constituted as a single court for the processing and execution of procedures. Although service has not been interrupted, Pareja acknowledges "serious deficiencies in IT matters due to system crashes and slowness".
One of the most pressing problems, according to Pareja, was the inability of officials responsible for execution to access all procedures until recently, a situation that has been resolved thanks to the "effort of the officials themselves and the lawyers of the Administration of Justice". The president emphasizes that the system is in an adjustment phase and that "the entire way of working, organization, and work of the Judicial Office has absolutely changed," valuing the general commitment of the staff.
“"We are adapting the operation to the new reality. Everyone, absolutely everyone, is in a period of adaptation and, therefore, everyone is enthusiastic."
Nevertheless, Pareja warns about structural shortcomings, such as the lack of coverage for sick leave, vacancies, and retirements, emphasizing that "this Law of Efficiency in Justice cannot be implemented with a zero budget. That is impossible and known.".
For his part, Carlos Arias, dean of the Córdoba Bar Association, considers it premature to make a definitive assessment due to the short time elapsed and the inherent difficulties of any transition. However, he acknowledges the "effort made by the Administration of Justice in Córdoba in organizing the transfer, adapting spaces, and reorganizing services".
It will not solve structural problems if it is not accompanied by personal and material resources.
The Legal Profession agrees that workload, lack of planning in some aspects of implementation, and the need to adapt to new dynamics are affecting the daily work of professionals. Arias believes that the reform can offer improvements, but its success will depend on a structural vision that guarantees the necessary resources for an agile and quality public service.
María José Carralero, dean of the Córdoba Association of Solicitors, highlights IT problems and staff shortages as critical points causing significant harm. She laments an "initial disorganization" and a "deficient" implementation that affects the daily work of solicitors, evidenced by a significant drop in the number of notifications. This situation creates procedural uncertainty and makes it difficult to locate files, in addition to pointing out the deficiency of the IT system in lacking an electronic file accessible to solicitors.
