An evaluation of the quality of justice in Europe and its developments in France

Abstract

French justice, like justice in other European countries, is undergoing profound changes. In a general context of public expenditure restrictions, it has to face the expectations of citizens and the requirements as to the results to be achieved. Justice has to report on its activities and its efficiency. The European Union, the Council of Europe, and in particular the European Commission for efficiency of justice (CEPEJ), as well as each country progressively acquire appropriate measuring and evaluation tools. However, this absolutely necessary evaluation of the judicial systems should not challenge the independence of judges in any decision they take.