Standard forms (templates) of procedural documents as an element of simplifying civil proceedings in EU member states

Abstract

This article examines the peculiarities of the application of standard forms (templates) of procedural documents in the civil proceedings of the EU member states.
In the member states of the European Union, the use of standard forms for filing procedural documents in civil proceedings has its own characteristics. The main features of this approach include: 1. Standardization of the process, that is, in many EU member states there are standard forms for different types of procedural documents, such as statements of claim, responses, petitions, etc. These forms are often developed in accordance with legislation and procedural practice, which simplifies their filling and submission. 2. Ease of use for litigants: The use of standard templates makes it easier for litigants, especially those representing themselves without legal assistance. 3. Simplifying the filling process, and forms often contain specific questions that parties need to answer. This simplifies the process of filling out documents, as the parties can use ready-made templates and answer specific questions. 5. Encouraging electronic filing: Many EU countries have implemented electronic filing systems, where standard forms can be completed and filed electronically. 6. Reducing the possibility of errors, because standard forms help to avoid misunderstandings and errors in the wording of legal documents, since they have clearly defined sections and requirements.
The general purpose of the application of standard templates in the civil proceedings of the EU member states is to make the judicial process more accessible, efficient and understandable for citizens and to reduce administrative difficulties for the courts. Also, such procedural forms are one of the important elements of civil proceedings, which are present in a simplified lawsuit.