LAHORE: The Lahore High Court has taken a decisive step to enhance judicial efficiency by issuing a directive that mandates all subordinate courts to adhere strictly to predefined timelines for resolving cases, in line with the National Judicial Policy.
Chief Justice Aalia Neelum emphasized that delivering justice within a reasonable timeframe is a constitutional obligation and critical for maintaining public confidence in the legal system. She underscored that unnecessary delays undermine trust and cause hardship to litigants. A formal circular has been distributed to all judges and judicial officers, instructing them to follow specific time limits for various categories of cases to ensure swift justice.
Under the new guidelines, land disputes should be settled within 24 months, while inheritance cases are to be decided within 12 months. Cases related to land injunctions must be resolved within 6 months. Financial disputes, including recovery suits, are expected to be concluded in a year, and contract enforcement cases within 18 months.
Family-related cases, such as divorce, dowry, child custody, and guardianship, are to be finalized within 6 months, whereas uncontested succession cases should be completed within 2 months. Applications for executing family court decrees are to be decided within 6 months, with banking and civil court applications to be handled within 12 months. Rent dispute cases requiring execution are to be addressed within 3 months.
In criminal matters, trials under the Juvenile Justice Act 2018 are to be wrapped up within 6 months. Offenses punishable by up to seven years of imprisonment should be decided within 12 months, while more serious crimes with longer sentences are to be concluded within 18 months. Murder trials are to be completed within 24 months, and labor disputes within 6 months.
Chief Justice Neelum directed all judges and judicial officers to rigorously enforce these timelines. She highlighted that delays in justice not only diminish public trust but also cause emotional and financial hardship for the parties involved. The implementation of these deadlines is vital for restoring faith in the judiciary and ensuring that justice is delivered both promptly and transparently.
