http://dx.doi.org/10.59704/f592a215f6054dfa https://verfassungsblog.de/lay-judges-in-common-courts/ Lay Judges in Common Courts - Remarks After the First Year of the Restoration of the Rule of Law in Poland Gwizdak, Jarosław eng 2024-12-19 electronic resource text/html ddc:342 Lay judges Poland Rechtsstaat Rule of Law Rechtsstaat Verfassungsblog Verfassungsblog--2366-7044 CC BY-SA 4.0 Lay judges in Poland, who play a crucial role in enhancing civic participation in the judiciary, have seen their role marginalized over time due to systemic changes and professional judges’ attitudes. Lay-judges do not feel adequately appreciated, do not see their function as a source of pride. Despite being undervalued and facing dwindling interest from citizens, revitalizing their participation through legislative reforms and a fresh narrative could strengthen public trust and legitimacy in the justice system.