Armenia expects judicial reforms

Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan has ordered approval of a strategy for judicial reforms for 2012-2016 and a related program, News Armenia reports.

The strategy will adjust the Criminal Code, implement new punishments, probation service at the Justice Ministry. Court processes may be simplified to 1-2 days.

The council of court chairmen will remain, but it will be managed by the Council of Judges. The Justice Council will have new functions of initiating administrative and service investigations.

More people will have free lawyers. Electronic notary service will be launched.

The Academy of Justice with higher education standards will open on January 2013.

International organizations have approved the strategy and offered assistance in its realization.