Germany proposes reforms to legal training and judicial appointments

The German Federal Ministry of Justice has introduced a draft law aimed at reforming legal education and the regulations for honorary judges. A central component of the proposal is the introduction of a federal standard for constitutional loyalty. Under the draft, individuals who actively fight against the free democratic basic order (FDGO) would be barred from entering the legal clerkship (Rechtsreferendariat), preventing them from accessing positions such as judges, prosecutors, or higher administrative service.

Additionally, the reform seeks to increase flexibility in legal studies. The Federal Association of Law Students (BRF) has welcomed the proposed changes to the German Judiciary Act (DRiG), which would allow practical study periods to be completed outside of lecture-free periods. This change is intended to help students balance their studies with employment or family care obligations. The BRF has further suggested that these practical periods should not be tied to the completion of a specific semester to ensure maximum flexibility.