In October 2025, Panama will take a historic step in the administration of justice: the new Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) will come into force. After more than 40 years of managing civil proceedings under the same framework, this change represents a profound transformation in the way litigation is conducted and access to justice is ensured.
A Paradigm Shift in Civil Procedure
The modernization of civil proceedings has been guided by a clear vision: to move beyond the written, formalistic model that has characterized Panama’s legal system for decades, and transition to more dynamic, transparent, and efficient proceedings, centered on oral advocacy and judicial immediacy.
Within this transformation, the framework of the ordinary declaratory process has been emphasized, highlighting key elements such as:
The structure of the new civil process: clearer stages, stricter deadlines, and simplified procedures.
Relevant innovations: the incorporation of oral hearings as the central forum for debate and decision-making, expanded use of technology, and a stronger role for judges as directors of proceedings.
General rules for oral hearings: standards governing the presentation of evidence, arguments, examinations, and interactions that require preparation very different from the practice that has dominated civil litigation for decades.
The Need for New Training
This reform is not just about applying new rules. As emphasized by the reform coordinators, it is essential that users of the justice system — attorneys, judges, litigants, and auxiliary staff — become well-versed in the new CPC and its procedural dynamics.
Beyond technical knowledge, the challenge lies in developing oral advocacy skills: the ability to argue persuasively before a judge, manage procedural time effectively, craft strategic questions, raise timely objections, and communicate with clarity.
Preparing for the Future
The implementation of the CCP marks the beginning of a period of adaptation and learning, but also of opportunity: to strengthen public trust in the judiciary and enhance the effectiveness of civil proceedings.
The challenge is collective. It is a paradigm shift that requires continuous learning, practice, and a new mindset for litigating, judging, and managing cases.
At LEGALEMET, we are closely engaged in this process of transformation and firmly believe that training in the new CPC means preparing for the future of civil justice in Panama.
