Judge Miguel Ureel from the Ghent police court has taken a bold step by postponing all cases until April 28, 2026, in protest of what he describes as an 'intolerable situation' within the judiciary.

His decision underscores a growing frustration over the lack of enforcement of sentences and the inadequate resources allocated to the judicial system.

Ureel has called for improved judicial conditions, advocating for the timely replacement of retiring judges and enhanced facilities for magistrates.

This protest also highlights serious concerns about unexecuted sentences, as many convictions, including those for serious crimes, often go unpunished due to systemic failures.

Under Belgian law, defendants are entitled to a trial within a reasonable timeframe, typically one to two years, beyond which penalties may be reduced or annulled due to delays.

The postponement means that defendants who appeared in court on April 29, 2025, will return home, which could have implications for their legal penalties next year.

Ureel concluded his statement by demanding respect and acceptable working conditions for judges, firmly stating, 'The cup is full' regarding the current state of the judiciary.