site.btaFair and Effective Justice Impossible without Strong, Independent, Respected Bar - Minister Naydenov

Without a strong, independent, and respected bar, there can be no fair and effective justice, Minister of Justice Nikolay Naydenov said in his address to the Spring National Conference of the Supreme Bar Council, his Ministry said in a press release on Saturday.

Naydenov emphasized that trust in the justice system begins with trust in the defence of citizens and that the bar is one of the main pillars of the legal system, guaranteeing citizens’ rights and the balance between the individual and the State.

Naydenov stated that the legal community faces serious challenges related to the dynamic legislative environment, the growing complexity of social relations, and the need for high professional and ethical standards. He emphasized the need for guarantees of the independence of the legal profession and respect for the lawyer’s duty.

The Minister informed the participants that a common approach is being discussed at the European level for the ratification by all Member States of the Convention on the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer, noting that Bulgaria will support the process. He also emphasized the importance of fair compensation for legal work, stating that it is key to the sustainability of the system and to ensuring access to quality legal aid.

Naydenov welcomed the efforts of the Supreme Bar Council to regulate the use of artificial intelligence in the legal profession and noted that similar processes are forthcoming throughout the entire judicial system.

Supreme Bar Council Chairman Stefan Marchev underscored the importance of constructive dialogue between institutions and the bar, noting that the legal community faces significant challenges related to amendments to the Bar Act and judicial reform.