Delay In The Justice System
- IJLLR Journal
- Jul 8
- 1 min read
Zaid Ahmed, IME Law College Affiliated to CCS University
ABSTRACT
Delays in the justice system undermine the rule of law, diminish public trust, and exacerbate social injustice. This paper examines the multifaceted causes of judicial delay—ranging from procedural complexity and resource constraints to socio-cultural factors—and analyzes their consequences on litigants and society. Drawing on comparative data, case studies, and expert interviews, the study proposes targeted reforms including procedural simplification, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), digitalization, and institutional capacity-building. The findings underscore the need for an integrated approach to expedite legal processes while safeguarding due process.
Introduction
The adage “justice delayed is justice denied” captures a fundamental challenge confronting judicial systems worldwide. In many jurisdictions, case backlogs stretch for years, eroding litigants’ confidence and imposing economic and psychological costs. This paper aims to map the terrain of delay in the justice system, identify root causes, and offer evidence-based recommendations.
Research Objectives
Identify and categorize the key factors that contribute to delays in judicial processes.
Assess the impact of delay on stakeholders, including litigants, lawyers, and the courts.
Propose pragmatic reforms to reduce delay without compromising fairness.
Scope and Significance
The study focuses primarily on civil and criminal court systems in common law jurisdictions, with illustrative examples from India, the United Kingdom, and Canada. By synthesizing qualitative and quantitative insights, the research contributes to policy debates on judicial reform.
