On March 26, the Latvian Saeima is scheduled to review the proposed amendments to the law regarding judges' pensions during its third reading. The Justice Council has approached the President, arguing that judges' pensions serve a distinct constitutional purpose, ensuring their independence and financial security even after leaving their posts. This highlights the unique role judges play in the legal system and underscores the need for legislation that protects their interests.

The previously accepted amendments propose to raise the required service duration to qualify for special pensions from 20 to 25 years. Additionally, the new regulations will modify how these pensions are calculated, shifting to a model based on the salaries received over a 120-month period ending two months before retirement. This change aims to create a more accurate reflection of judges' earnings, although it could potentially lead to a decrease in expected payouts for future retirees.

Moreover, the proposed law introduces restrictions on the amount of special pensions, diminishing both the minimum and maximum pension caps by 5%. This reduction is particularly concerning for judges released from service for health reasons. The ongoing discussion emphasizes the balance between fiscal responsibility and the need for a sustainable pension system that supports the independence and dignity of judges in Latvia.