The São Paulo Bar Association proposed a judicial reform on Monday that would establish fixed terms for Brazil's Supreme Federal Court justices [3].
The proposal targets the perceived lack of transparency and integrity within the court. By restructuring how justices are appointed and how long they serve, the organization aims to make the STF less politized [2, 6].
Among the primary recommendations is the implementation of a fixed 12-year mandate for STF ministers [1]. Currently, justices serve until a mandatory retirement age. The proposal also suggests a minimum age of 50 to assume the position [2].
The reform package extends beyond term limits. It includes suggestions for changes to criminal competence, and a push for greater diversity within the courts [1]. Additionally, the OAB-SP proposes alterations to the structure of the National Council of Justice (CNJ) and the introduction of virtual trials [4, 6].
These proposals were delivered on Monday, Aug. 17 [3]. Following the submission, a study commission dedicated to judicial reform was installed on Monday, Aug. 23 [4].
The organization said the measures are necessary to combat public perception regarding a deficit of integrity in the high court [2]. The OAB-SP said these structural changes will improve the overall transparency of the judiciary [6].
“The organization aims to make the STF less politized.”
This proposal represents a significant challenge to the current life-tenure system of the Brazilian Supreme Court. By introducing term limits and age floors, the OAB-SP is attempting to shift the court from a permanent power center to a rotating body, which could reduce the long-term political influence of any single appointing president.
