Polish courts awarded over 7.5 million zł in compensation for prolonged proceedings last year, a record sum, yet individual payouts remain low.
Compensation for Prolonged Court Proceedings Rises
Polish courts awarded over 7.5 million zł in compensation for delays in proceedings last year, marking a record high. However, citizens receive an average of only 3,500 zł in compensation for court delays, according to Friday’s “Rzeczpospolita.”
Despite government plans and efforts, Polish courts operate at an exceptionally slow pace. Legal professionals openly discuss a collapse in the functioning of the Polish judiciary. Waiting times for judgments are, on average, a month longer than in 2024 and nearly six months longer than in 2011.
Bankruptcy Cases Face Significant Delays
Certain types of cases, such as bankruptcy proceedings, take an average of over four years to complete, even only in the first instance. The State Treasury, and therefore citizens, bear the cost of these delays.
Average Compensation Amounts Increase Slightly
Average compensation amounts have increased. In 2025, citizens could expect an average of 3,584 zł for excessive waiting times, compared to 3,380 zł the previous year. This amount remains relatively small, at the lower end of the statutory compensation range.
According to the law on complaints regarding violations of the right to a speedy trial, courts can award a maximum of 20,000 zł for delays.
Growing Success Rate of Delay Complaints
The number of complaints filed regarding procedural delays remains low, despite the increasing slowness of court processes. Last year, 9,664 complaints were filed, compared to 9,495 the previous year.
A record number of over 20,000 complaints were submitted to the courts in 2019. Since then, Poles have been less likely to complain about court delays.
Complaint Success Rate Nearly Quadruples in a Decade
However, the success rate of these complaints is increasing. A decade ago, only 9% of complaints were upheld, rising to 10% in 2019, and over 22% last year. This indicates that courts are now upholding nearly one in four complaints regarding delays.
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