What is postępowania szczególne?

Postępowania szczególne (Special proceedings) in Polish law refer to specific types of court proceedings that deviate from the general rules of civil procedure outlined in the Code of Civil Procedure (Kodeks postępowania cywilnego - kpc). These special proceedings are designed to address the unique characteristics and needs of certain legal matters, often requiring a more streamlined, expedited, or specialized approach. They are regulated by specific provisions within the kpc or other separate acts.

Here are some key aspects of postępowania szczególne:

• Purpose: To provide tailored procedures for specific types of cases, such as family law matters, labor law disputes, business disputes, inheritance cases, registration proceedings, and more. These proceedings often aim for efficiency, protection of vulnerable parties, or specialized expertise.

• Deviation from General Rules: Special proceedings may modify or supplement the general rules of civil procedure regarding issues like jurisdiction, evidence, parties, deadlines, and available remedies.

• Types of Special Proceedings: Numerous types of special proceedings exist, including:

  • Postępowanie nakazowe (Order for Payment Proceedings): a simplified procedure for recovering undisputed monetary claims.

  • Postępowanie upominawcze (Summary Proceedings): another simplified procedure for recovering debts.

  • Postępowanie zabezpieczające (Securing Proceedings): used to secure a claim before a judgment is obtained.

  • Postępowanie egzekucyjne (Enforcement Proceedings): the process of enforcing a court judgment.

  • Sprawy z zakresu prawa pracy (Labor Law Cases): Disputes between employers and employees.

  • Sprawy z zakresu prawa rodzinnego i opiekuńczego (Family and Guardianship Law Cases): Matters like divorce, child custody, and adoption.

  • Postępowanie rejestrowe (Registration Proceedings): Related to registration in public registers like the National Court Register (KRS).

  • Postępowanie spadkowe (Inheritance Proceedings): To determine the rights of heirs.

  • Postępowanie o ubezwłasnowolnienie (Proceedings for Incapacitation): To declare someone lacking legal capacity.

• Specific Rules: Each type of special proceeding has its own set of rules and procedures outlined in the law. These rules address issues like admissibility, jurisdiction, evidence, time limits, and available remedies.

• Legal Representation: Depending on the specific type of special proceeding, legal representation by an attorney or legal advisor may be mandatory or advisable.

• Complexity: Special proceedings can be complex, requiring a thorough understanding of the relevant laws and procedures. It is always advisable to seek legal advice when involved in such a proceeding.