The Judicial Studies Committee yesterday started a two-day seminar for the members of the Judiciary, to examine in detail various theoretical and practical aspects of judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters within the European Union framework. The seminar is intended to enhance the continuing professional development of judges and magistrates in this particularly important field of European Union Law, at whose centre lies the principle of cross-border collaboration between the courts of member states.

The seminar is being held with the support of the European Commission Agency TAIEX.

Yesterday was dedicated to cooperation in civil and commercial matters, including the practical implications of council regulations dealing with the service of judicial and extra-judicial documents, cooperation in the taking of evidence, mutual recognition and enforcement of judgments and the enforcement of uncontested claims.

Today will be dedicated to cooperation in criminal matters within the context of instruments dealing with mutual legal assistance, the European arrest warrant and the European evidence warrant, and the transfer of sentenced persons between member states of the EU.

The seminar is being conducted by experts from Scotland, Poland, Germany, Sweden and Malta.