Good Budgeting, Better Justice: Modern Budget Practices for the Judicial Sector

The Law and Development Working Paper Series serves as a platform for new and innovative thinking on law and development and features work from World Bank staff and from external authors. Law and Development disseminates the findings of work in progress to encourage a more rapid exchange of ideas about development issues and law. Papers carry the name of the authors and should be cited accordingly. The findings, interpretations, and conclusions expressed in this paper are entirely those of the authors. They do not necessarily represent the views of the World Bank and its affiliated organizations, or those of the Executive Directors of the World Bank or the governments they represent. For many countries, determining annual budgets for the justice sector is a frustrating and contentious process. The requirements of the executive branch of government—especially for fiscal restraint and accountability in financial management—are often perceived as infringing on the principles of the judicial branch (“fairness ” and “independence ” in the administration of justice). The problem is not simply insufficient funds, but a mutual perception that neither branch properly understands, or respects, the other’s mandate and goals. This study provides information and practical guidance for government officials, judicia