Motivación en las sentencias emitidas por los jueces de primer nivel en Ecuador.

Abstract

Abstract: This paper analyzes the reasoning in first-level judgments in Ecuador based on a case study: case No. 10333202302268 for wrongful dismissal. Methodologically, it combines doctrinal review and analysis of the judgment (legal and factual basis, evidentiary assessment, and subsumption). The results show sufficient and correct reasoning: selection of relevant legal norms, explicit use of sound judgment, and logical connection between fact, norm, and decision. However, a formal defect of apparent irrelevance (a terminological reference unrelated to the subject matter) is identified, which does not affect the ratio decidendi. The application of Article 94 of the Labor Code is restrictive and appropriate (late payment surcharge only on back wages, not on severance pay), and the calculation of the items is coherently derived from the proven facts. It is concluded that the appropriate remedy is the correction of procedural defects on appeal, leaving the substance intact. The contribution of the study lies in an operational matrix for evaluating judicial reasoning and in practical recommendations for correcting procedural defects without sacrificing legal certainty.