Interview with the Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, Mr. Leopoldo Llanos Sagristá

Abstract

The interview with Supreme Court Justice Leopoldo Llanos Sagristá explores his career in the judiciary and his views on various aspects of judicial functions and the organization of the judiciary in Chile. The interviewee highlights the importance of a humanistic education in the practice of law, emphasizing the need for empathy and an understanding of social issues when applying the law.

At the institutional level, he analyzes the evolution of the judicial role, noting progress in overcoming legalism through the incorporation of standards derived from international human rights law. He also examines the parole system, identifying the need for more modern regulations and the creation of courts for the enforcement of sentences.

Regarding procedural reforms, he argues that they contain unresolved issues and warns of tensions with fundamental guarantees in some subsequent amendments. Regarding the role of the Supreme Court, it highlights its function in unifying case law and protecting fundamental rights. Finally, it proposes strengthening judicial independence through the creation of an autonomous judicial governance body, improving appointment systems with objective criteria, and promoting greater access to justice, especially for vulnerable groups.