The Neighbourhood Courts Bill in Chile, 1971

Abstract

The following article will analyse the bill on the creation of neighbourhood courts presented by President Salvador Allende Gossens (1970-1973) to the Chamber of Deputies on February 2, 1971. First, there is an analysis of the conceptual and procedural difference between neighbourhood courts and popular courts, terms that were in conflict in the period studied. Secondly, the central axes and the purpose of the project presented by the government are analysed: principles of the reform (liberal and socialist), access to justice, jurisdiction, the selection of judges and punishable crimes. Finally, there is a description of the harsh questions raised about this project by various actors of the time: Judicial Power, political parties and law professors.