Germany announces reforms for lay judges and digital violence laws

German Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) has announced legislative reforms targeting both the lay judge system and digital violence.

A proposed reform of the Judges Act aims to prevent extremists from serving as lay judges. The legislation would require lay judges to uphold the democratic order of the Basic Law. Under the proposal, individuals convicted of intentional crimes resulting in a fine of more than 90 daily rates or a prison sentence would be ineligible. To verify applicants, selection committees could review public social media profiles and access the Federal Central Register, though Hubig stated she does not deem mandatory inquiries to the Office for the Protection of the Constitution necessary.

Additionally, the Federal Cabinet has approved a draft law to strengthen protection against digital violence. The bill seeks to more clearly define criminal offenses related to sexualized deepfakes, revenge pornography, and voyeurism. The legislation would allow courts to order internet providers to disclose personal data in cases of alleged insults or personality rights violations. It also includes provisions for blocking user accounts and preventing the creation of new accounts on platforms if serious violations are identified. The German Judges Association noted that these procedures will require careful balancing between personality rights and freedom of expression.