Access to justice
The ability to bring legal claims before an independent authority without practical, financial or procedural barriers that make rights illusory.
Access to justice ensures that rights can be asserted in practice, not only on paper. In the Swiss context it includes access to courts or competent tribunals, clear procedural routes, reasonable time limits, language and form requirements that are not excessive, and cost rules that do not make proceedings impossible for those with limited means. Legal aid, representation and information may be necessary where complexity or vulnerability would otherwise block a claim. The principle is balanced against legitimate procedural discipline and the efficient administration of justice.