PRETORIA - A new mandatory mediation directive threatens to further delay thousands of civil cases.
The directive could take effect on 14 April, and relegates all civil cases even those already on the court roll to mediation before they can reach court.
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However, the real concern is the shortage of judges, courtrooms and registrars, which has led to cases being delayed as far out as 2031.
The Personal Injury Plaintiff Lawyers Association's advocate Justin Erasmus claims that the severe shortage of judges is the primary cause, which has led to serious issues.