Pravosodje

Pravosodje, often rendered as pravosuđe in some languages, is the system of courts and related institutions responsible for interpreting and applying laws in a country. It encompasses the judiciary’s role in resolving civil, criminal, administrative, and constitutional disputes, protecting fundamental rights, and ensuring due process and fair trials.

A typical structure includes multiple levels of courts, such as basic or district courts, intermediate or appellate courts, and a supreme or high court. Many countries also have a constitutional court or supreme court that rules on constitutional issues and the validity of laws. In some jurisdictions, specialized courts handle matters such as tax, commercial, or administrative disputes. The judiciary is supported by a public prosecution service and administrative bodies that oversee court administration, budgeting, and personnel.

Independence and impartiality are core principles of pravosodje. Judges often have secure tenure and operate free from executive or legislative pressure, with transparent appointment and dismissal procedures. Oversight bodies, judicial councils, or similar institutions may oversee ethics, discipline, and career advancement to preserve integrity and accountability.

Functions of pravosodje include interpreting statutes, applying legal rules, safeguarding rights and freedoms, ensuring due process, and providing accessible, timely justice. It also contributes to the rule of law by checking laws for constitutional compatibility and by supervising the legality of administrative actions. Challenges commonly include backlogs, resource constraints, and efforts to combat corruption and improve transparency and efficiency.