5 million new cases in 2024, marking the second consecutive year at that level and representing an increase of around 515,000 cases compared to 2020, according to an analysis by the German Judges’ Association (DRB) reported by “Bild am Sonntag”
As of the end of 2024, approximately 950,000 criminal cases remained unresolved amongst prosecution services – a rise of 240,000 since 2020 Simultaneously, case closure rates are increasing; only one in sixteen cases investigated in 2024 resulted in charges being filed, compared to one in ten in 2014
The DRB is advocating for substantial investment from both the federal and state governments to address the mounting challenges within the justice system “The problems, particularly those faced by chronically overloaded investigation agencies and criminal courts, can no longer be postponed” stated Sven Rebehn, Federal Executive Manager of the DRB, to “Bild am Sonntag” He urged the state governments to act, noting that the federal government has pledged nearly half a billion euros to strengthen prosecution services and expedite court proceedings
Rebehn emphasized that state commitments to a corresponding staffing increase “this fall” are essential to facilitate the federal funding and ensure the rapid creation of new positions within the justice system
