In the explanatory memorandum to the bill, PiS MPs argue that it is solely intended to streamline proceedings in petty offense cases and relieve judges of the burden of handling such cases. Lawyers and activists are nevertheless concerned about the proposed removal of the provision guaranteeing the right to refuse to accept a fine. Under the bill, we would still be able to challenge in court a fine imposed on us that we disagree with, and after considering the appeal, the court could suspend enforcement of the penalty.
“We are dealing with another attempt to destroy Polish law. Citizens must not be stripped of their rights. We are heading toward a dictatorship,” attorney Wojciech Kasprzyk comments. “An officer cannot have judicial powers. Where is the logic in requiring us to pay a fine first and only then allowing us to appeal? Paying a fine is clearly an admission of guilt. This is another legal blunder,” the lawyer says, adding: “To improve the functioning of the courts, the prestige of court employees should be raised through salary increases, and more people should be hired by the courts.”
If this amendment comes into force, in practice, if we receive a fine, we will have to pay it without the possibility of refusing to accept the penalty. Only after paying will we be able to challenge the fine, while waiting for the case to be decided—possibly for as long as several months. What do you think of the Law and Justice party’s idea?