Andorra Justice Centre Reception Closes Early, Sparking Confusion

Users of Andorra's Seu de la Justícia encountered unexpected disruptions on Monday when the reception area closed early at 3:30pm, rather than the usual 7pm. Many arrived to collect documents, such as criminal records certificates, or handle minor procedures, only to find no staff available despite the building's doors remaining open.

The abrupt change caught both visitors and staff from other departments off guard, including some batlles. This followed a week of normal holiday schedules—except for December 24—leading many to assume operations would continue as usual after Christmas. Judicial departments beyond reception operated normally until 7pm, exacerbating the confusion for those directed there after finding reception unattended.

On Tuesday, an internal notice clarified that the reduced hours—opening at the standard time but closing at 3:30pm—will apply through January 5. An exception applies to December 31, when opening will start earlier but service will end at 1:30pm.

A similar early closure occurred last summer, and plans for the same during the Christmas period were reportedly dropped after complaints from judicial operators. The surprise return this week has sparked internal unease, with some staff expressing frustration over the lack of prior communication.

This incident highlights ongoing challenges with internal reorganisations led by the Consell Superior de la Justícia. For instance, the dissolution of the former "serveis comuns" department has seen its staff reassigned to bolster services directly within judicial offices and jurisdictions, a move that has puzzled some operators.