Supreme Court Issues New SOPs to Ensure Transparent Case Scheduling

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has introduced new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure uninterrupted judicial functioning during unforeseen public holidays and to improve transparency in case scheduling.

According to an official statement issued in Islamabad, the court will continue its administrative and judicial work even during emergency public holidays, with minimal essential staff, unless directed otherwise by the Chief Justice.

The new SOPs establish a clear, priority-based framework for fixing cases. Urgent matters such as bail applications, family disputes, criminal review petitions, cases involving prisoners above 80 years of age, and matters with short legal questions will receive priority.

To tackle the case backlog, the court has decided that at least 40% of each final cause list will include the oldest pending cases, particularly those filed up to 2018. Newer cases will be included progressively to ensure balanced case disposal.

The court has also introduced special facilitation measures for lawyers from Sindh and Balochistan to improve access and representation.

In a move towards modernization, the apex court plans to implement an automated case fixation system. Weekly and proposed monthly cause lists will also be issued to enhance predictability and streamline case management.

Officials said these reforms aim to promote efficiency, transparency, and a citizen-centric justice system. The SOPs have been made publicly available on the court’s official website to ensure awareness among stakeholders.