The Supreme Court inaugurated the Office of Complaints and Allegations that will be, as from February 1 responsible for the reception, recording, analysis and referral of complaints filed by citizens against judges, judicial staff, lawyers, and other justice-related professionals. This office will enable citizens to file any kind of claims, by filling in forms available at their request. The identity of the complainants will be treated with reserve by the officials.

The office was inaugurated by the President of the Supreme Court, Justice Alicia Pucheta de Correa, who also took oath to the officials who will be working at the office. At present were Supreme Court Justice Victor Nunez and Mr. John Beed, director of USAID/Paraguay.

Outside Asuncion, allegations and complaints will be filed at the office of Constitutional Guarantees of each of the circumscriptions nationwide, which will also have forms that facilitate the submission of complaints.

The Office of Complaints and Allegations is one key step undertaken under the Threshold Program aimed at reducing impunity and fighting corruption in Paraguay through more effective internal control and disciplinary systems within the judiciary. The final goal is to improve the rule of law, to assure better access to justice for all citizens, and comply with legal procedural deadlines and standards.

January, 31st, 2008