On February 3, 2025, the National Justice Council (CNJ) began its inspection of the Maranhão Judicial Court (TJMA), which aims to evaluate the regular functioning of first and second-instance judicial units along with extrajudicial offices. The opening session occurred at the plenary session room of the TJMA, hosted by its president, Chief Justice Froz Sobrinho, and attended by the CNJ team led by Justice Arnoldo Camanho from the Federal District Justice Court (TJDFT).
The inspection, described by Justice Camanho as 'ordinary,' holds significance for ensuring the proliferation of CNJ guidelines and standards across the judicial system. It will run until February 6, 2025, marking the first of several inspections planned for nine state courts throughout the first half of this year.
During the opening, Chief Justice Sobrinho expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts with the CNJ and acknowledged the recent investments made toward improved infrastructure and training within Maranhão’s judiciary system. He emphasized the importance of this inspection, stating, 'What matters is this common management. It gives us the direction to pursue the best levels of governance, transparency, and efficiency, which are pivotal to our management.'
Attending the session were other prominent members of the judiciary, including Justices Raimundo Bogéa, José Luiz Almeida, and Carla Reis from the Amazon state court. The assembly included representatives from various institutions of the state’s justice system, allowing for shared insights on judicial practices.
Justice Camanho reinforced the supportive nature of the CNJ’s role, saying, 'Our purpose extends beyond simply overseeing; we aim to assist, point out paths, and promote cooperation, ensuring we approach this process with cordiality and respect.'
Frequently during the proceedings, the collaboration between the CNJ and local courts has been commended, fostering enhancements across jurisdictions. The Chief Justice noted, 'The entire Maranhão Judiciary team is prepared and eager to assist with this inspection.' He also pointed out the recent establishment of the 122nd digital inclusion room, which aims to facilitate access to justice for remote communities, including quilombola and indigenous territories.
The CNJ's actions, underscored by the words of Justice Camanho and Chief Justice Sobrinho, reflect the organization's commitment to not only maintain operational standards but also to cultivate improvements and efficiencies within judicial frameworks.
Leading the CNJ delegation, Justice Camanho highlighted the evolution of its image, stating, 'The CNJ has moved beyond merely being seen as punitive; we now function as advisers and collaborators, encouraging progress within courts.' This sentiment reiterates the CNJ's shift toward constructive oversight.
The inspection's schedule includes visits to various courts and judicial offices, ensuring continuous operations are unimpeded from 9 AM to 6 PM daily, concurrently with the inspections. The conclusion of this rigorous examination is set for February 6, at 5 PM, marking another step toward strengthened governance within the justice system.
Support from all levels within the judiciary has been strong, demonstrating collective dedication to elevatory standards and transparency. 'For our objectives to be properly met, we must remain vigilant and proactive, focusing on the future of justice—a more efficient and transparent one,' Chief Justice Sobrinho concluded.