Danish courts face growing case backlog

The Danish court system is struggling with an increasing backlog of criminal cases and lengthier resolution times. The 2023 annual report indicates that incoming cases exceed those finalized, inflating the backlog despite processing more cases. A new legislative proposal aims to address delays, with lawmakers like Preben Bang Henriksen acknowledging a trade-off with legal security. The backlog at district courts grew by around 5,000 cases to approximately 37,500. Civil cases take roughly 13 months, with another 10 months if appealed. Specially complex civil cases at High Courts take on average over three years. Changes proposed include altering lay judges’ participation, limiting it to cases with prison terms over 30 days. Critics, including the Danish Bar and Law Society, warn this could lead to more wrongful convictions. The proposed law is expected to take effect on June 15.