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

Abstract

Abstract: This study examines the reasoning behind judgments issued by first-level judges in Ecuador through the analysis of case No. 11203-2018-00595, processed as a voluntary inventory of inherited assets. Using a qualitative approach and documentary analysis, the study reviews background information, procedural actions, and the final judgment, identifying relevant facts, claims, evidence presented, and the weight assigned to expert testimony. To evaluate the line of reasoning, the EL-SER framework is applied, which allows for the ordering of facts, applicable legal norms, solution, ratio decidendi, and outcome. These elements are then compared with standards of sufficient and correct reasoning, verifying whether the decision explains why certain norms were chosen, how the evidence was assessed, and how the conclusion was reached. The results show a largely linear, comprehensible, and verifiable line of reasoning, which promotes effective judicial protection and legal certainty. However, opportunities are identified to strengthen the explicitness of premises, the handling of objections, and the precision of the link between facts and legal consequences. Recommendations for improvement are proposed. Furthermore, the importance of providing motivation to strengthen trust in the justice system is highlighted.