Ombudsman

Ombudsman for the Judiciary Asher Cola found complaints against Judge Michal Agmon-Gonen justified due to her activity in the 'Israel Women's Network' WhatsApp forum and her recommendation of a lawyer appearing before her, but determined that there was no room for disciplinary proceedings.

Complaints were filed against Judge Michal Agmon-Gonen for active membership in a WhatsApp group of the Israel Women's Network, including posting an advertisement on her behalf and recommending a lawyer who appears before her. Although the complaints were found to be justified, the Ombudsman emphasized that the flaws found do not justify taking disciplinary action.

A chain of errors led to the fact that a defendant accused of assaulting a minor was not brought to trial four years after the incident. An indictment was deleted, the defendant managed to leave the country, and even upon his return, nothing was done about the matter for about 15 months. "This may have consequences for the minor and his family," the ombudsman determined.