Can a new judge deliver judgment written by another judge

In general, a new judge cannot deliver a judgment written by another judge. Here's why:

  1. Judicial independence: Judges are expected to be impartial and independent in their decision-making. Delivering a judgment written by another judge could be seen as compromising this independence and potentially influencing the outcome of the case.
  2. Due process: The parties involved in the case have a right to a fair and impartial hearing. Delivering a judgment written by another judge could be seen as a violation of this right, as it may not reflect the new judge's own consideration of the evidence and arguments presented.
  3. Procedural fairness: The process of delivering a judgment involves a careful consideration of the evidence, arguments, and applicable law. A new judge may not have had the opportunity to review the case file, hear oral arguments, or consider the evidence in the same way as the original judge.
  4. Accountability: Judges are accountable for their decisions. Delivering a judgment written by another judge could undermine this accountability, as the new judge may not be able to explain or justify the reasoning behind the decision.

That being said, there may be exceptional circumstances where a new judge might be asked to deliver a judgment written by another judge. For example:

  1. Emergency situations: In cases where a judge is unavailable or unable to deliver a judgment, a new judge might be asked to deliver a judgment written by another judge to ensure the timely resolution of the case.
  2. Consistency: In cases where multiple judges have heard the same evidence and arguments, a new judge might be asked to deliver a judgment written by another judge to ensure consistency in the application of the law.
  3. Legacy cases: In cases where a judge has retired or passed away, a new judge might be asked to deliver a judgment written by the original judge to ensure the case is resolved in a timely and fair manner.

In such exceptional circumstances, the new judge would typically be required to review the judgment written by the original judge and ensure that it is consistent with the applicable law and the evidence presented in the case. The new judge would also need to be satisfied that the judgment is fair and just, and that it reflects the original judge's considered opinion.