The reform of the judicial system is one of the biggest problem areas for the Green-Turquoise coalition at the federal level. A key area: the expansion of the suspect’s rights. But now an agreement is in sight.
Movement helps with blockages. Also in politics. And so, as the “Krone” heard on Sunday from Constitutional Minister Karoline Edtstadler (ÖVP), “the development of freedom of information is in its final stages.” The legislative package – including the abolition of official secrecy – will go to parliament this autumn.
120,000 cases are stopped every year
Another green-turquoise problem area: judicial reform. A key area: the expansion of the suspect’s rights. Armenak Utudjian, president of the Bar Association, conveyed the urgency this weekend in the presence of the responsible ministers Alma Zadić (Justice/Greens) and Karoline Edtstadler (Constitution/ÖVP). He made this clear in the “Krone”. “Costs are only available for acquittals in criminal proceedings. Upper limit 10,000 euros. The defense costs are much higher.” Every year, 120,000 cases are dismissed for which there is no compensation at all. “That means doom for many.”
Three-digit million dollar amount
Reimbursement of costs for all suspensions and acquittals would amount to a three-figure sum of millions annually. The Ministry of Justice also knows this. Minister Alma Zadić: “My goal is to make the cost reimbursement fairer. To this end, I am in constructive consultation with the Minister of Finance to determine the exact financial structure of the cost reimbursement.”
Karoline Edtstadler’s office says: “The judicial reform is a major project. Both sides agree on the fundamental objectives: independent leadership and strengthening the rights of suspects.”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
