Interviewing the impact of legal systems in Southwest Asia,

Alma T. Saudia Arabia 





1. What does justice feel like where you live/or where you were born ?



Justice feels like punishment for wrongdoers with the hope of rehabilitation. Yes, people make mistakes, but in some cases, it’s an isolated event. No one should lose their entire life over a small mistake. Still, it’s important to punish those who do wrong. For example, if someone commits theft out of desperation, they should face consequences but also be given a chance to rebuild their life through community service or rehabilitation programs. Here, justice means punishing the drug dealer and rehabilitating the addict. It’s forgiving debts and granting early releases during times of spiritual renewal like Eid or Ramadan. It’s also knowing that if someone violates my rights, they will be held accountable.



	2.	“How do people in your country usually resolve conflicts — through courts, community leaders, negotiation, or something else?”



Conflicts are often resolved through both the courts and community leaders, usually in the form of governors who step in to mediate or ensure fairness. Recently, two families in Qassim discovered that their daughters’ bodies had been mixed up, and one family had unknowingly buried the wrong body. The cemetery initially tried to cover it up and refused to let the family see the body they were about to bury. When they finally gave in and revealed the truth, outrage spread across the country. The issue was eventually resolved by the governor through the courts, ensuring that both families received justice and proper closure.



	3.	“If someone is accused of a crime in your country, what’s the process like from accusation to verdict?”



In Saudi Arabia, when someone is accused of a crime, the process begins with the police investigating the case and collecting evidence. If there is enough proof, the case is transferred to the Public Prosecution, which decides whether to move forward with formal charges. The accused is then brought before the court, where judges, not juries, review the evidence, listen to witnesses, and question both sides. The verdict is based on Sharia law and national regulations. Throughout the process, the accused has the right to legal representation, to appeal the verdict, and to receive a fair trial under judicial supervision.



	4.	“How do people in your country view lawyers and judges — as respected, feared, distrusted, or something else?”



We view judges and lawyers as respected individuals. They can’t convict you of a crime if there isn’t proof. 



	5.	“If you could change one thing about your country’s legal system, what would it be — and why?”



I’d make court proceedings more digital. The legal system still lags behind compared to other government services, and moving it online would make it faster, easier, and more accessible for everyone.



    6. Is that legal system influenced by emotions ? (For example. Crying in court in front of a jury)



Not really. In Saudi Arabia, there are no juries, and judges base their decisions on evidence, facts, and Sharia law rather than emotions. While compassion can sometimes influence sentencing, the final verdict is meant to stay objective and fair.