Statement on the laws of “Making Amendments and Additions to the Constitutional Law “The Judicial Code of the Republic of Armenia” and “Making an Addition and an Amendment to the Law “On the Academy of Justice” submitted to the President for signing

The National Assembly submitted the Laws of “Making Amendments and Additions to the Constitutional Law “The Judicial Code of the Republic of Armenia” and “Making an Addition and an Amendment to the Law “On the Academy of Justice” (hereinafter referred to as the Laws) to the President for signing on February 4, 2021. The experts and lawyers of the President’s Office and independent specialists reviewed the Laws.

The President of the Republic considers the role and significance of the judicial system substantial to ensure the state’s vital activity and society's normal life.

Implementation of judicial investigations, based on the principles of supremacy of rights, legality, equality before the law and the court, and fair inquiries of cases, and a guaranteed right of fair and public trials within reasonable terms by independent and impartial courts, are necessary conditions to strengthen trust in the state and judicial system, and to implement efficient justice.

The application of laws enshrined in the Constitution should not be problematic to maintain the principles of judges’ independence and impartiality and exclude any interference with the administration of justice.

The examination and expert opinions by the Office of the President of the Republic have led to the conclusion that the Laws are Prima Facie problematic from the viewpoint of constitutionality.

The President of the Republic did not sign the Laws and applied to the Constitutional Court with relevant legal grounds and arguments, requesting to determine the compliance of the Laws with the Constitution.