Alternative Dispute Resolution Significantly Reduces Case Backlogs at Gulu High Court

The implementation of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) has proven highly effective in tackling the growing case backlog at the Gulu High Court. Resident Judge, Justice Phillip Odoki, reported that ADR has facilitated the resolution of at least 2,333 cases over the last three years, significantly easing the burden on the court.

Justice Odoki highlighted the persistent challenges within the judiciary, including a limited number of legal professionals, which have historically impeded the swift and effective administration of justice. He noted that criminal appeal cases, in particular, require meticulous review and have been heavily impacted by these constraints. As of last week, the Gulu High Court had 66 criminal cases awaiting hearing, while the civil division, largely comprised of land disputes, had a docket of 674 cases.

The success of ADR in mitigating these case numbers was emphasized by Justice Odoki, who pointed to its stakeholder engagement through mediation as a key factor. During a recent Court of Appeal hearing in Gulu, Deputy Chief Justice Moses Kavumi urged legal practitioners to embrace ADR where suitable and to contribute pro bono services at least four times annually. This, he stated, would expedite case handling and enhance access to justice amidst ongoing delays.

Legal experts like Dr Julius Paul Layoo, a lecturer at Gulu University’s faculty of law, concur that ADR offers considerable savings in time and resources compared to formal litigation. He explained that ADR methods such as mediation, arbitration, and conciliation provide faster resolutions. Counsel Alice Akello Latigo from Latigo and Company Advocates added that ADR empowers litigants to find amicable solutions with minimal court intervention, fostering a win-win scenario that promotes lasting peace between parties.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/adr-eases-case-backlogs-in-gulu-high-court-5575330