New Law Proposed to Prevent Judges from Hearing Cases with Conflict of Interest

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

The Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives is preparing to review a proposed law that would restrict judges from presiding over certain civil and commercial cases. The proposed legislation aims to ensure impartiality and prevent potential conflicts of interest.

The law outlines specific scenarios where judges would be prohibited from hearing cases. The law would prevent judges from presiding over cases where they have a close familial relationship with one of the parties involved, including situations where the judge is a relative, guardian, or legal representative of a party. It would also prevent judges from presiding over cases where they have previously acted as a legal advisor, advocate, or witness for one of the parties, even if this occurred before they became a judge. Additionally, the law would prohibit judges from hearing cases where they have previously ruled on the acceptance of a claim by one of the parties.

The proposed law aims to strengthen the judicial system's integrity by ensuring that judges are not involved in cases where their impartiality could be questioned. This move is expected to enhance public confidence in the legal process and promote fairness in the administration of justice.

The Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee is expected to thoroughly examine the proposed law and make recommendations to the House of Representatives for further consideration and potential enactment.