Balearics backlog hits 128,271 despite judges

Courts across the Balearic Islands are carrying 128,271 pending cases, despite the creation of 13 new judge posts. At the opening of the judicial year in Palma on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, Carlos Gómez, president of the High Court of the Balearic Islands, said the system needs 39 posts in total. Similar numbers have already been announced for 2027, he said.

Europa Press

The new posts followed the entry into force of the Public Justice Service Efficiency Law. Gómez said the reform had caused concern, but rejected claims that it had brought first-instance courts to a standstill.

Fewer cases completed as new claims rise

In the first half of 2026, courts completed 79,376 cases, down 9.1% from 87,244 in the second half of 2025. Gómez called that fall expected and reasonable after the reform took effect.

New cases moved in the other direction, rising 2.4% from 88,499 to 90,632. The number waiting to be dealt with climbed from 116,682 at the end of 2025 to 128,271 on 30 June 2026, a trend Gómez described as worrying.

He also urged judges to guard their impartiality at a time of polarisation and mistrust in institutions. More staff and better material resources, he said, would help deliver justice that is impartial, effective and swift.

Prosecutor flags crimes against under-16s

The Balearic Islands' chief prosecutor, Adrián Salazar, warned of an increase in sexual offences involving victims under 16. He also pointed to increasingly complex international drug-trafficking networks and a rise in robberies involving violence or intimidation.

Salazar said population growth, both regular and irregular, was adding to conflict and therefore to the number of cases reaching the courts. He also raised the housing emergency and the lack of protection for women affected by sexist violence.

Balearics court backlog hits 128,271 despite 13 new judges

Fewer cases completed as new claims rise

Prosecutor flags crimes against under-16s