years. Some cases have been pending before the Qalqilya, Jenin and Bethlehem First Instance Courts for approximately 14 years. Such length in proceedings not only violates the defendant’s fundamental right to a trial within a reasonable time, but also risks to erode the public’s confidence in the administration of justice, thus weakening the entire rule of law system in Palestine. Chart 16 - Overall duration of criminal proceedings (% of cases) 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 1 year or less 1 to 2 years 2 to 3 years Serious Crimes Court 3 to 4 years 4 to 5 years First Instance Courts 36 5 years or longer