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Fewer cases, more people: the challenge of humanizing judicial processes

Humanizing Justice: Towards Clear Communication and Closer Processes

Law, as a social practice, cannot be understood apart from language. Every legal act—from the drafting of a norm to its application in real life—is built and transmitted through words. For this reason, communication among legal professionals, and between them and citizens, is a cornerstone of the judicial system. Clarity and transparency in this exchange not only shape the course of proceedings but also directly impact people’s perception of justice.

The Collective Nature of Legal Practice

The practice of law is never a solitary task. The complexity of legal systems and the diversity of actors involved demand coordination, cooperation, and interdisciplinarity. Legislators, judges, prosecutors, lawyers, and other professionals form a network that only works through teamwork. This collaborative vision not only increases efficiency but also enriches the interpretation and application of the law.

The Citizen’s Experience in the Judicial System

When a person enters a judicial process, they rarely know what will happen next: the steps involved, how long it will take, or what is expected of them. Too often, they are reduced to a “case,” an anonymous file that erases their values and life expectations. This paternalistic approach, even if well-intentioned, can lead to frustration, mistrust, and even dehumanization.

Humanizing Judicial Processes

To humanize means to bridge the gap between the system and its users. It requires providing clear, accessible, and understandable information; respecting individual autonomy; and encouraging people to participate in decisions that affect their lives. It is about recognizing users not as passive recipients of rulings, but as individuals with rights, emotions, and life projects.

Achieving this calls for skills rarely emphasized in legal training: empathy, active listening, compassion, commitment, conflict resolution, adaptability, and teamwork. Incorporating these competencies is key to building a fairer and more humane system.

Clear and Accessible Language

Legal jargon is often hermetic and technical, creating a barrier for citizens. Advocating for plain language does not mean oversimplifying, but rather translating complex concepts into terms that are understandable. Disseminating not only legal norms but also the basic phases of a proceeding creates security, reduces uncertainty, and empowers individuals to make informed decisions.

Transparency and Trust in an Interconnected World

We live in a hyperconnected society where information circulates constantly, yet judicial proceedings often unfold in opacity. Providing updated and accessible information on the progress of cases not only reduces uncertainty but also strengthens trust in justice and improves public satisfaction.

Conclusion

Humanizing the judicial system is not an abstract ideal—it is an urgent necessity. It means placing people at the center, acknowledging their autonomy and dignity, and ensuring that language and processes act not as barriers but as bridges to justice. Clear communication, transparency, respect for individual values, and training in human skills are the foundations of a closer, fairer, and more humane justice system.