The launch of the platform took place in the context of the celebration of the sixth Judicial Power 2024 Conference, which is being held on April 25, 26 and 27 at the Palace of Justice of Santo Domingo East.
The presiding judge of the Supreme Court of Justice (SCJ), Henry Molina, together with Justice Justiniano Montero, of the First Chamber of this high court, launched the Digital Access platform in the Judicial Branch, a tool that will allow users to carry out online procedures, requests, document deposits and written conclusions, as well as to make consultations and other actions 24 hours a day.
He pointed out that the implementation of the tool will be gradual, and that the service is already operating as a pilot in the civil and commercial courts of first instance of the National District and La Vega, and that it will be gradually extended to other areas and courts until it covers the entire country.
He maintained that, thanks to this Access Portal, both citizens and the lawyers who represent them will be able to manage procedures, hearings and requests from their homes and offices 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in a user-friendly environment, with security and with the guarantee of the integrity of the information.
"That is why the launch of this Digital Access Portal is so important. For when we talk about putting people at the center of all decisions, we mean both users and professionals of the justice system. And for them, this digital platform marks a milestone in terms of access," said the presiding judge.
Henry Molina said that the platform goes hand in hand with other initiatives such as facial recognition that increases security and adds to the implementation of virtual hearings and digital signature. "Together, these measures represent a decisive step towards the digitization of the service. A gradual process, by matter and by judicial department."
He valued the contribution to the environment and the economic savings that the implementation of these technologies will mean, since from July 13, 2020 to April 15, 2024, approximately 3.32 million jurisdictional documents have been signed electronically, which translates into the preservation of approximately 3,183 trees.
"Along with the improvement and modernization of physical offices, these digital means expand access to justice. Geographical and economic barriers are reduced, and this has a positive impact on the exercise of rights. In addition, the tradition of distance and opacity of the old judicial practices will be overcome, since the digital environment enhances transparency and access to information," said Henry Molina.
On his side, the SCJ judge, Justiniano Montero, recounted the actions that led to the use of the legislative initiative by the Plenary of the SCJ that concluded with the approval of the Law on the Use of Digital Media in the National Congress; the socialization and consultations for its implementation throughout the country with the different sectors of society as well as the approval of the regulations for the implementation of the Digital Access tool.
The platform is available through the Judicial Branch website www.poderjudicial.gob.do. In order to access it, users must first register, which can be done online from a computer or cell phone. The Judicial Branch Contact Center is also available for remote assistance.
