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

Abstract

Abstract: This research analyzed the adequacy and correctness of the reasoning in the trial-level judgment issued in inventory proceedings No. 11317-2024-XXXX by the Multicompetent Judicial Unit based in the Puyango canton. A qualitative, documentary, and legal-argumentative approach was applied. Using the "EL SER" method, the legal problem, normative and factual issues, responses, *ratio decidendi*, and the decision were reconstructed; additionally, questionnaires were used to examine the sufficiency and correctness of the reasoning. The analysis revealed identifiable normative and factual grounds: the ruling defined the non-contentious nature of the inventory proceedings; verified the death of the decedents, the petitioners' legal standing, the expert report, and the absence of opposition; and linked these elements to Article 345 of the Organic General Code of Processes. No instances of non-existent, insufficient, or merely apparent reasoning were identified. However, the judgment could have more clearly set out the assessment of the expert report and the connection between the established facts and the applicable rule. The hypothesis was confirmed solely with respect to the case examined.