Following our discussion of alleged gender disparities, we now address concerns about Judge Jacqueline Padovani Grima’s conduct amid recent reforms.
Overview of the Recent Family Court Reforms
On February 2, 2026, Malta’s government launched Family Court reforms to improve efficiency, humanity, and child focus. Led by Prime Minister Robert Abela, Justice Minister Jonathan Attard, and Social Policy Minister Michael Falzon, the changes stem from 2024 consultations. They include making the court autonomous with a new building, enhancing mediation, setting case time limits, prioritizing co-parenting, enforcing maintenance, and requiring early financial disclosure. The Government emphasize reducing trauma for families, with children’s interests central.
Linking to Alleged Systemic Biases
Our first article highlighted reports of bias against men in separations, where women’s applications allegedly receive preferential treatment, challenging “equality of arms.” Reforms aim to address this via mediation and timelines. Post-publication, several men shared experiences of disadvantage under Judge Padovani Grima, amplifying court critiques.
Jacqueline Padovani Grima
Specific Allegations Against Judge Padovani Grima
One of our readers claimed Judge Padovani Grima misrepresented evidence review to favor a woman, stating analysis of a sealed, unopened file.
Records show past impartiality scrutiny: In 2021, a recusal request in a custody case due to her lawyer’s prior representation of her; she declined, prompting a constitutional challenge.
In 2017, GWU sought recusal over family ties to opposing counsel; the Constitutional Court upheld.
A 2024 family case involved allegations, but no misconduct findings. Courts affirm her impartiality, with no documented sanctions. Amid reforms stressing transparency, these claims highlight alignment needs.
Toward Greater Accountability and Reform
The unfolding Family Court reforms represent a pivotal opportunity for Malta to rectify longstanding inequities, but their success hinges on addressing persistent allegations of judicial misconduct, including those leveled against Judge Jacqueline Padovani Grima. Without rigorous oversight, such concerns risk perpetuating distrust and injustice, ultimately failing the families and children the system is meant to protect.
Stakeholders must urgently demand rigorous investigations into judicial conduct, mandatory anti-bias training, and ironclad recusal protocols to protect vulnerable families and children from ongoing injustices. Now is the time to empower bodies like the Commission for the Administration of Justice with stronger tools for accountability.
