Agenda Profile: Madis Timpson
The Chairman of the Supreme Court’s overview of court orders, the administration of justice, and the uniform application of laws.
2025-06-10
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting.
Political Position
The political position is strongly aimed at improving the functioning of the rule of law and the efficiency of the judicial system, emphasizing that Estonia is a rule of law state, although there is always room for improvement. The position is conservative regarding major structural reforms (such as a Constitutional Court or lifetime tenure for judges) and defends the independence of the judiciary from both right- and left-wing ideologies. The political framework is primarily policy- and results-based, focusing on solving specific issues (for example, the backlog of administrative cases).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in judicial administration, the history of legal reforms, and procedural specifics (e.g., amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure (KrMS), administrative case backlogs). They are proficient in technical terminology and cite concrete data (e.g., the two-year backlog at the Tallinn Administrative Court, a state fee of 25 euros). Furthermore, they are cognizant of the judiciary's criticism regarding the outdated court information system and advocate for the adoption of AI solutions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is analytical and efficiency-driven, voicing concern over the system's deterioration. The style is at times blunt and persuasive, utilizing vivid language (e.g., judges' resources must not be wasted on "fluff"). Emphasis is placed on the urgent necessity to conclude the lengthy debate and move to decision-making so that the system can progress.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in legislative work, noting the handling of amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure (KrMS) by the Legal Committee this fall. Furthermore, they have planned a joint committee session with Liina Kersna in Tartu this autumn focusing on legal education. They also recently attended the judges' plenum in Viljandi, demonstrating direct engagement with the judicial community.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
He/She takes a stand against those who claim that Estonia is not a state governed by the rule of law, firmly rejecting those assertions. He/She also criticizes colleagues who have criticized the right-wing worldview, while affirming the independence of the judiciary. Furthermore, he/she criticizes the state for breaking its word by failing to fulfill the promise to restore judges' salaries.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Demonstrates a willingness to cooperate, noting the agreement reached with Liina Kersna to organize a joint session concerning legal education. The speaker recognizes the judges' initiative in resolving the consumer credit dispute and relays the notaries' concerns via the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. It is stressed that inclusion means hearing people out, not fulfilling 100% of every request.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses on the national organization of the courts but highlights regional problems, particularly the backlog of administrative cases in Tallinn (nearly two years). It emphasizes that the availability of notary services must be examined nationwide, naming Viljandi, Võru, and Põlva in addition to Tallinn and Tartu.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports a tax policy that returns more money to people earning the average wage by eliminating the income tax 'hump.' It views the resource of highly educated judges as precious and demands its sensible utilization by freeing them from administrative ballast. It stresses that good employees must be held onto "tooth and nail."
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social focus is centered on reforming legal education (introducing integrated curricula) and ensuring that citizens feel like citizens of the Estonian state and have access to justice through the courts. Concern is also expressed regarding the potentially high cost of litigation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on processing amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure (KrMS) to speed up the process, and on implementing new e-solutions (an AI-based information system) within the court system. It requires the legislator to act quickly in resolving consumer credit disputes, noting that the ball is now in the legislator's court. The topic of integrated study in legal education is also a priority.
3 Speeches Analyzed