A different approach at the Central Appeals Tribunal ensures that over one-third of appeals cases are concluded within twelve months. In the regular procedure, this is about ten percent. Parties also feel better heard and taken seriously. This increases confidence in the procedure. Moreover, employees experience more job satisfaction and hearing capacity is used more efficiently. This is evident from an evaluation (pdf, 1.4 MB) of the Cascade project.
Which approach fits best?
The Cascade project started at the end of 2023 in the Social Assistance workflow. These cases begin with a written or telephone intake to discuss the interests and wishes of the parties. Then a so-called triage process determines which approach fits best with the case. Eddie Bongers, president of the Arnhem-Leeuwarden Court of Appeal and chairman of the Innovation steering group within the Judiciary, emphasizes the importance of this approach: With Cascade we create room for customization and listen early to what parties really find important. This makes our justice system not only faster but also fairer.
Central Appeals Tribunal
The Central Appeals Tribunal rules on appeals concerning disputes in the field of social insurance, social provisions and civil servant matters. The Central Appeals Tribunal is one of the four highest administrative courts in the Netherlands. The other three are the Supreme Court, the Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State and the Trade and Industry Appeals Tribunal.