- Efforts to reduce the criminal backlog have stalled at 43 percent, reflecting sustained pressure on the courts.
- Regional Courts recorded over 65 000 criminal court days, but clearance rates remain inconsistent.
- District Courts finalised 94 percent of criminal cases, underscoring the benefits of effective systems.
The Annual Judiciary Report 2024 2025, released by Chief Justice Mandisa Maya on 25 November 2025, shows that South Africa’s courts have made notable strides in improving efficiency.
District Courts finalised 94 percent of criminal cases, and Superior Courts met key targets for reserved judgments. However, despite these gains, the reduction of criminal case backlogs has reached only 43 percent, underscoring the constant strain on the judicial system. Chief Justice Maya emphasises that “Reduction of criminal case backlogs (43 percent)” is a challenge needing urgent attention.
Regional Courts faced the heaviest load, logging a combined 65 461 criminal court days and 204 326 hours, averaging just over three hours daily. During this time, 41 512 new cases were registered, while 40 072 criminal trials were finalised, resulting in a clearance rate of 97 percent.
Civil matters showed mixed results, with only 56 percent of civil applications and 60 percent of civil trials finalised. The report notes that no reserved judgments exceeded three months from the date of the last hearing, reflecting progress in timely decision-making.
Superior Courts meet some targets but gaps remain
Superior Courts achieved 71 percent compliance with delivering reserved judgments within three months, surpassing the 70 percent target. Chief Justice Maya states that “All Superior Courts collectively achieved 71 percent compliance with the delivery of reserved judgments within three months against a set target of 70 percent.”
However, uneven progress across divisions is clear. The Supreme Court of Appeal finalised 72 percent of matters, the Labour Appeal Court 71 percent, and the Labour Court 55 percent. Criminal cases across Superior Courts stood at 73 percent, showing that even at higher levels, workloads vary and efficiency depends on the context.
District Courts set a benchmark in efficiency
District Courts demonstrate that structured monitoring and management can yield strong results. Child justice preliminary investigations were finalised at 84 percent, and maintenance matters reached 89 percent within 90 days. These outcomes show that operational systems can deliver efficiency even under heavy workloads.
Despite these successes, the report highlights a slight decline in overall court activity compared to the previous year. Court days fell by three percent, disposed cases by two percent, and court hours by two percent. Systemic obstacles like unavailable courtrooms, faulty recording equipment, load shedding, natural disasters, and bad weather continue to challenge court operations.
Independence, innovation and technology
Chief Justice Maya points out the connection between judicial independence and innovation, stating that “Independence and innovation are not isolated ideals but mutually reinforcing. By safeguarding independence, our Courts remain trusted guardians of rights; by embracing innovation, we improve how we serve the public.”
The rollout of the Court Online system to seven Superior Courts shows how technology can support case management and enhance operational efficiency. Training and capacity building through SAJEI are also recognised for improving performance, equipping judges and magistrates with the necessary skills in judgment writing, digital systems, and case flow management.
Transformation and accountability remain key priorities
The report outlines progress in judicial appointments and demographics under Section 1746, showing steps toward greater representation on the bench. Extra-judicial disclosures boost transparency, allowing the public to evaluate potential conflicts without speculation.
The year also faced loss, honouring judicial officers who passed away, reminding the public that statistics represent real people whose service impacts the lives of ordinary South Africans.
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