Saudi Justice Minister Hails Development in Kingdom’s Judicial Sector

Saudi Justice Minister Hails Development in Kingdom’s Judicial Sector

Saudi Justice Minister Walid al-Samaani said in a TV interview that the specialized legislation announced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense, is a major development that will complete the judiciary system.

"The Crown Prince's announcement includes reforms of legislative methodology based on the principles of Islamic law, and the latest legal theories and human rights standards,“ the minister said.

"Specialized legislation constitutes the binding substantive laws that complement the institutional judiciary, control judicial methodology, and enable prediction of outcomes,“ he added, noting that the "judiciary's role is to apply the law to the facts.“

"The draft Personal Status Law aims to maintain the marital relationship and protect the interests of parents and children. It also regulates divorces in a manner that protects the rights of children and their parents.“

Al-Samaani also noted that, under the draft Penal Law, no punishable offenses are recognized other than those stated in the Law or relevant legislation. In addition, the draft Law adopts alternative sentences and observes human rights standards in all considerations.

"In the past few years, we launched commercial and labor courts and enabled pleading before appellate courts and challenges before the Supreme Court.“

"To alleviate the administrative burden, we have launched