Magistrate Monica Vella has been suspended from her duties after complaints were filed over delays and administrative failings, Times of Malta reports.

The suspension is believed to be linked to delays in issuing written sentences following court rulings. Vella has appealed the decision and continues to serve as magistrate pending the outcome of the appeal.

Vella had 1,897 pending criminal and tribunal cases as of February - one of the highest caseloads among her peers - including 141 ongoing inquiries. The newspaper quoted sources pointing to an excessive workload and possible staff shortcomings as contributing factors to the delays.

Last year, Vella was publicly rebuked by Mr Justice Lawrence Mintoff after a court official testified that she had failed to pass on case files.

Vella, a former Xewkija mayor, was appointed magistrate in 2015.

Disciplinary proceedings against members of the judiciary are confidential and heard behind closed doors, with decisions issued by the Commission for the Administration of Justice.