Bassano del Grappa court proposal sparks protests over staff cuts in Veneto

On 3 July 2026, lawyers and magistrates gathered in front of the Vicenza courthouse to protest the government's draft law Ddl 2646 that would create a new "Tribunale della Pedemontana" in Bassano del Grappa. The demonstration was organized by the bar associations of Vicenza, Padova and Treviso and included local magistrates and administrators.

Opponents argue the new court would draw judges, public prosecutors and administrative staff away from existing tribunals in Vicenza, Padova and Treviso, reducing their capacity by up to 33 % for judges and 29 % for prosecutors in Vicenza, with similar proportional losses elsewhere. Projections estimate the Bassano district would need about 26 judges, 10 prosecutors, 84 administrative units for the court and 36 for the prosecutor's office, figures contested by critics.

The government, represented by under‑secretary Andrea Ostellari, maintains the plan will increase overall staffing and improve access to justice in the Veneto region, describing it as a proximity‑justice initiative.

Padova bar president Francesco Rossi called the scheme illogical, warning that moving personnel would “cannibalise” existing courts and could lead to isolated decision‑making and reduced oversight. He highlighted existing vacancies of roughly 31 % for administrative staff and 21 % for magistrates, arguing the new court would exacerbate these gaps.