Tarragona implements afternoon trials to tackle judicial backlog

The Court of Tarragona introduces a pioneering measure in Spain due to chronic staff and magistrate shortages.

Generic image of the interior of a judicial courtroom with evening lighting.
IA

Generic image of the interior of a judicial courtroom with evening lighting.

The Court of Tarragona has launched an afternoon hearing system to address the severe saturation and lack of personnel affecting the courts in the Tarragona region.

The initiative, in place for three months, allows trials to be held between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM two days a week. According to Joan Perarnau, president of the Court of Tarragona, this is an exceptional and unique measure in Spain that required two years of negotiations with the Ministry of Justice.

"The truth is that it is being a success, despite the sacrifice it entails for police, officials, lawyers, and magistrates."

Joan Perarnau · President of the Court of Tarragona
The situation in the area is critical, with periods where up to 65% of judicial positions remained vacant during 2026. This instability particularly affects judicial districts like Amposta or Valls, where high staff turnover hinders the ordinary functioning of justice.
Additionally, Mercè Caso, president of the High Court of Justice of Catalonia (TSJC), has called for a specific economic supplement for judges working in Catalonia to offset the high cost of living.