Civil Justice

Period: 2007-2013

Budget: EUR 106.5 million

Falling under the Fundamental Rights and Justice Framework programme , the Civil Justice programme aims to promote judicial cooperation in civil matters and the adjustment of Member States existing judicial systems to the EU system thereby improving the lives of EU citizens through access to justice. By requiring that the relevant authorities work together in the area of Civil Justice, the programme seeks to enhance the contact and the exchange of information and good practice between legal, judicial and administrative authorities.

The specific objectives of the programme, intended for legal practitioners, national authorities, EU citizens and public or private organisations, include:

• Improve access to justice, promote mutual recognition of judgments, lower differences in civil law and enhance the proper administration of justice

• Exchange information regarding each Member State's legal and judicial systems, with a mind towards mutual understanding Ensure the proper implementation of Union instruments

• Develop mutual confidence and quality of justice

• Support the training of judicial staff

The above objectives can be achieved in a number of ways:

• Undertake studies and research regarding the current situation and possible remedies

• Educate the public through campaigns, websites and distribution of information

• Transnational projects presented by at least three Member States

• Work done by non-governmental organisations or other entities

Outside of EU Member States, the other possible participants include candidate countries, western Balkan countries, Denmark legal officials or other states whose involvement would contribute to the achievement of the above objectives.

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