Staff Writer
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has announced that magistrates’ courts in the Midlands and Mashonaland West provinces will go paperless under Phase 4.4 of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS), as Zimbabwe continues to modernise the administration of justice.
According to the JSC, the system is a unified digital platform connecting institutions within the justice delivery sector while automating and tracking cases throughout the judicial process, from initial filing through to disposition and appeal.
The JSC said the filing of cases will now be conducted electronically, while hearings will be conducted virtually. Court users will also be able to check the status of their cases electronically through the system.
The commission said all users who interact with IECMS are required to register, although those who have already registered do not need to register again.
The JSC said IECMS can be used by judicial officers, the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service, the Law Society of Zimbabwe, attorneys, the Attorney-General’s Office, the National Prosecuting Authority, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission, the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs through the Legal Aid Directorate, court messengers, community service and members of the public.
According to the JSC, the system will encourage collaboration, improve operational efficiency, communication, transparency and accountability, while saving time, paper and transport costs.
The commission said the platform will also provide 24-hour service availability and make court processes more efficient.
Members of the public intending to file cases electronically require a computer, laptop or smartphone, internet connectivity and a valid email address.
The JSC said users can lodge legal documents from their offices or homes using their electronic devices, reducing the need to physically travel to court.
“Registration is currently ongoing at any court station near you. Those already registered do not need to register again,” the JSC said.
The commission said people experiencing challenges can contact its support team on 0868 800 7422 or email zimiecms@jsc.org.zw.
Users can also approach e-filing officers at their nearest courthouse for assistance, while the IECMS WhatsApp chatbot is available on +263 719 231 284.
The rollout of IECMS Phase 4.4 is part of the JSC’s efforts to digitise court operations and move Zimbabwe towards a paperless and fully automated justice delivery system.