Legislative Update: Electronic Signatures Introduced in Jordan’s Judiciary (2025)
Introduction
The Ministry of Justice of Jordan has announced the pilot launch of digital signatures for judicial documents at the Amman Court of First Instance. This initiative, led by Minister of Justice Bassam Talhouni, marks the beginning of a multi-stage plan to modernize judicial processes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency through digital transformation.
The reform is linked to amendments to the Electronic Transactions Law (2025 draft), which currently restricts the use of electronic signatures in certain contexts.
Key Developments
1. Activation of Digital Signatures
Over 1,000 judges and approximately 5,000 Ministry of Justice employees have now been equipped to use electronic signatures. The first phase focuses on judicial documents, which will now carry secure digital codes to confirm authenticity and prevent tampering.
2. Next Phases
-Phase 2: Extension of digital signatures to lawyers (over 18,000 registered practitioners). Lawyers will be able to file and sign submissions electronically without appearing in person. -Phase 3: Inclusion of witnesses and expert professionals, creating a complete electronic signature ecosystem.
3. Legal Definition
Under the draft amendments to the Electronic Transactions Law, an electronic signature is defined as: “A signature executed electronically, or by any equivalent means, attached to or logically associated with an electronic record, used to identify the signatory and ensure its uniqueness..”
4. Benefits
Efficiency: Reduces paperwork, archiving costs, and manual handling.
Access: Lawyers will be able to submit files, pay fees, and track cases electronically.
Speed: Streamlines case distribution to judges and reduces case-processing times.
Security: Each document carries a digital verification code ensuring authenticity.
Legal Implications
Judiciary Modernization: The digital signature reform is expected to shorten litigation timelines and increase transparency.
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Regulatory Alignment: Pending parliamentary approval, the amended Electronic Transactions Law will enshrine electronic signatures as legally binding.
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Jaradat Lawyers’ Role
As a leading law firm in Jordan, Jaradat Lawyers assists businesses, law firms, and individuals in:
Advising on the Electronic Transactions Law and digital signature compliance.
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Structuring corporate and commercial agreements to incorporate legally valid electronic signatures.
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Supporting law firms and in-house teams in transitioning to digital court procedures.
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Providing guidance on cybersecurity, data protection, and digital verification frameworks.
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Conclusion
The introduction of electronic signatures in Jordan’s judiciary is a landmark step toward digital transformation. By reducing reliance on paper, cutting costs, and enhancing transparency, the reform will accelerate dispute resolution and create a more efficient legal environment.
For lawyers, businesses, and investors, early adaptation to electronic signature processes will be essential to remain compliant and take advantage of Jordan’s modernized legal framework.