Czech parliament overturns president Pavel's veto, limits lay judges in courts

Starting in January, some court cases will no longer be decided by panels with lay judges, formerly known as people’s judges. The Czech parliament confirmed this decision today, overturning President Petr Pavel’s veto. Pavel opposed the bill, citing the need for more analysis before removing lay judges in such large numbers, especially in criminal cases. The government argues the reform will reduce bureaucracy and save around CZK 8 million annually. Lay judges will still participate in serious criminal cases, such as murder, at regional courts.