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Spain Sets 500-Judge Expansion for 2026 After CGPJ Backs 375-Post Call

The plan targets chronic vacancies by combining a major public intake with a contested quota for experienced jurists.

Overview

  • The Government and the CGPJ agreed to create 500 posts in 2026, with 375 by public opposition and an intended 125 via the fourth-turn route for seasoned jurists.
  • The CGPJ formally moved to offer 375 posts now and ordered an internal report to determine how many fourth-turn vacancies can legally be called.
  • A dispute over fourth-turn needs persists, as the Ministry cites a historic deficit of 781 seats while CGPJ sources estimate roughly one hundred, despite a legal 25% target for magistrate vacancies.
  • To speed incorporation, the CGPJ tasked the Escuela Judicial with proposals to shorten the current two‑year training without lowering standards.
  • Judicial associations welcomed the expansion but warned about funding, infrastructure and timing constraints, while a substitutes’ group condemned its exclusion and pressed for stabilization.