Veterans Urge Catalonia to Reinstate Historic Sort Court

A group of veteran politicians from the Pallars region, including former senators and mayors, along with lawyers and notaries, has urged the Catalan government to reinstate the historic Court of First Instance and Instruction in Sort. The court, established in 1834, was abolished in 1965 by a Franco-era decree and its duties transferred to the Tremp court.

In a letter to Ramon Espadaler, the Catalan councillor for Justice and Democratic Quality, the signatories describe the move as an act of "reparative justice." They argue that the original closure, justified by claims of excessive judicial fragmentation, improved communications, and population decline—trends common across Pyrenean counties—was politically motivated. Comparable courts in Lerma (Burgos), Vitigudino (Salamanca), and Alcaraz (Albacete) survived despite similar conditions and still operate today.

The group highlights ongoing challenges in the high-mountain Pallars Sobirà county, which spans a vast area with long distances, limited public transport, and poor road networks. These factors, they say, hinder access to the Tremp court and delay case processing due to communication difficulties.

Among their key arguments for reinstatement are the pre-existing historic right, the preservation of a distinct Pallars legal framework developed over time to address local issues in family law and property rights. This includes provisions for elderly care arrangements, fiduciary heir designations, commons management, and neighbourhood societies. They also cite the area's current vitality, the activity of its notary and registry offices, and strong backing from civil society.

The demand enjoys broad support from Pallars Sobirà's representative bodies, including its 15 town councils and the comarcal council. Local institutions have repeatedly raised the issue since 1998, viewing restoration as beneficial to residents.