Workshop: Quality Management in the Courts and Models of Judicial Governance

At 1:30 pm (UAE time), the online workshop was opened with a short welcoming speech by the dean of college of law Prof. Mohammed Al Qasimi, represented by Prof. Abderrahim El Maslouhi from UAEU, in which he stated the importance of the German judicial system and jurisprudence. This said, he emphasized on the role of such an online workshop in promoting knowledge and sharing key expertise.

In his following opening speech, the director of the Rule of Law Progamme Middle East and North Africa at the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, Mr. Philipp Bremer, introduced the attendees to the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, its program in Lebanon and the region. He expressed his thankfulness and joy that judge Marc Spitzkatz from Germany was willing to join and to share his experience, because it is “a great chance to connect and learn from another: how are the courts in Germany organized and what are the best practices that have been developed”.

Afterwards, Judge Marc Spitzkatz took the floor, his lecture was divided into three main parts:

1)- In the general facts about the judicial system in Germany, the most important historical setups and heritage that made the German judicial structure were mentioned. At the same time, explaining how does the separation of power works.

2)- The German court structure is divided between ordinary courts (civil and criminal) and several specialized courts (labor courts, administrative courts, etc.). An emphasize on differentiating between the federal court, constitutional court and state-level courts was made.

3)- The work of a German judge was highlighted, also its appointment, education, independency, powers and dismissal. In addition to discussing the election of committees, the role of the chambers and the possible disciplinary measures.

This workshop ended with a Q & A session and a lively discussion.