Judicial Reforms Pass in Mexico

“Deputies pass key laws for judicial reform, backed by President Sheinbaum. Reforms aim at accountability, gender perspective, and efficiency within the Federal Judiciary.”

**Deputies Approve Secondary Laws for Judicial Reform**

On December 10, 2024, the Union’s Chamber of Deputies approved three key secondary laws related to the judicial reform of the Federal Judiciary. The approval was backed by members from the parties Morena, Green Party, and Labor Party. The proposals, sent by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, passed with the following votes:

– The Organic Law of the Federal Judiciary: 330 votes in favor, 123 against, 0 abstentions.
– The Judicial Career Law: 325 votes in favor, 125 against, 0 abstentions.
– The General Law of Administrative Responsibilities: 328 votes in favor, 126 against, 0 abstentions.

Opposition came mainly from parties such as National Action Party, Institutional Revolutionary Party, and Citizen Movement, the latter of which attempted to block the reforms with various motions. They argued the legislative body was in contempt, following a definitive suspension of the judicial reform secured in October 2024.

The reforms include the creation of the Judicial Discipline Tribunal and the Judicial Administration Body. These entities will oversee administrative responsibilities and hold accountable individuals in judicial roles.

A significant shake-up includes introducing anonymous judges for organized crime cases, reducing the number of Supreme Court justices from 11 to 9, and shortening the term for constitutional judges from 15 to 12 years. Additionally, the reform emphasizes gender perspective in judicial careers and mandates preventive measures against harassment and violence.

The changes promise to respect labor rights fully while dissolving existing funds and trusts under the Federal Judiciary.

**Additional Developments in Judicial Affairs**

Recent reports have highlighted ongoing discussions regarding judicial reforms and their broader implications. Critics argue these changes are a response to past Supreme Court rulings unpopular with key political figures, notably referencing the outgoing administration’s dissatisfaction with certain judicial decisions.

Meanwhile, security operations in other regions, such as the safeguarding of a potential fentanyl laboratory in Mexicali, showcase heightened vigilance against organized crime. These efforts reinforce the government’s commitment to combating drug trafficking—a significant challenge impacting judicial and law enforcement systems.

With such legislative strides, Mexico’s legal landscape may face significant transformations, potentially impacting judicial processes and governance dynamics across the country.