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In today’s information environment, courts face a unique dilemma: while striving to remain open to society and visible not only in traditional media but also on social networks, they must at the same time preserve impartiality, independence, and refrain from engaging in public relations battles. Moreover, stories appearing in the media and on social networks about courts or cases under examination, as well as politicians’ comments regarding the outcome of specific cases, in certain instances evolve into attempts to exert pressure on the courts.

Issues relating to the external and internal communication of courts, the transfer of case “hearings” into the public information space, as well as the opportunities and risks posed by artificial intelligence tools, were discussed at a meeting of the “Media and Courts” Working Group of the European Network of Councils for the Judiciary in Vilnius. During the meeting, a comprehensive position of the Lithuanian courts was presented by the President of the Supreme Court of Lithuania, Dr. Danguolė Bublienė, while the discussion was moderated by the Chair of the Criminal Division, Dr. Gabrielė Juodkaitė-Granskienė.

According to the President of the Supreme Court, Dr. D. Bublienė, in open democratic societies criticism is a normal part of public dialogue; however, comments directed against the judge examining a case, or misleading versions that do not correspond to the facts—particularly when disseminated while the case is still pending—may influence the decision, harm the parties to the proceedings, or even discredit the entire judicial system.

It was also recalled that, pursuant to Article 114 of the Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, interference in the activities of a judge or a court by state authorities and governance institutions, members of the Seimas, other officials, political parties, political and public organisations, or citizens is prohibited and entails liability established by law. Although in the past politicians more frequently expressed their opinions on pending cases, on decisions adopted or allegedly to be adopted, such instances are now rare. Nevertheless, there have been situations in which, due to public statements made by politicians or heads of state institutions, the Judicial Council had to issue public statements or apply to the Seimas Committee on Ethics and Procedures; however, such measures are taken only in exceptional cases.

It was emphasised during the meeting that open, proactive, professional, and clear communication is one of the priorities of the courts. According to the President of the Supreme Court, the timely public delivery of decisions, comments following cases that attract significant public attention, and explanations of rulings in plain language help society better understand judicial decisions, reduce stereotypes about courts being closed institutions or “judicial clans,” and strengthen public trust in the courts as a transparent institution.

“Effective court communication requires a strategic approach and consistent structural solutions: ensuring that courts have press representatives and cooperate effectively not only with national but also with regional media, thereby bringing the service of justice closer to every individual. It is also essential that, in conducting external communication, courts not only respond to journalists’ inquiries but also create information content that is understandable and engaging to society, and take the initiative in explaining adopted decisions. Indeed, responsibility for public education lies not only with the courts but also with the media. Education and outreach have already become part of the daily activities of the courts, through engagement with communities, open days, and exhibitions. Such openness and proactivity contribute to shaping a culture that will yield dividends for trust in the judicial system in the future,” said Dr. D. Bublienė.

At the meeting, the Chief Adviser of the Civil Division of the Supreme Court, Dr. Mykolas Kirkutis, introduced to Network members the pilot artificial intelligence tool “TeDIA” used for communication purposes by the Supreme Court of Lithuania. “The development of the Court’s artificial intelligence agent prompted a review of the previous communication practices of the court of cassation, a reconsideration of the structure of press releases on adjudicated cases, and efforts to make them simpler and clearer. Although this is currently a pilot artificial intelligence project at the Supreme Court of Lithuania, certain trends are already visible. We can already speak of encouraging ‘TeDIA’ results—fully half of the Supreme Court of Lithuania’s press releases on adjudicated civil, criminal, or administrative offence cases are prepared with the assistance of artificial intelligence,” said Dr. M. Kirkutis.

In conclusion, Dr. D. Bublienė stated that the aforementioned activities and strategic directions should contribute to shaping the portrait of a more open judge—not only as an applier of the law, but also as an empathetic professional who understands society.

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Media contacts:
Tautvilė Merkevičiūtė
Supreme Court of Lithuania
Public Relations Officer of the Office of the President
Mobile: +370 685 84863
Email: t.merkeviciute@lat.lt
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