The judiciary in Germany is grappling with the challenge of attracting and retaining young talent, with many young lawyers being lured away by private sector jobs that offer significantly higher starting salaries. According to Wulf Schindler, Chairman of the German Association of Judges in Baden-Württemberg (DRB BW), the private sector often offers salaries of up to 150,000 euros, nearly three times more than what is offered in the judiciary.
Justice Minister Marion Gentges does not view the situation as dire, stating that they have been able to attract the top candidates for the judiciary in Baden-Württemberg. However, she acknowledges that efforts must be made to continue this trend as the competition for talent intensifies.
From Schindler's perspective, the most recent collective wage agreement for the public sector, which included special payments and a 5.5% salary increase, has not improved the salaries of judges and public prosecutors. Furthermore, the pay gaps between different career paths have been distorted, with Hesse requiring an additional 3% salary increase in several stages for senior civil service positions.
The assumption that judges and public prosecutors live in luxury and afford expensive homes is a common misconception. While some may have inherited wealth, their income does not finance these luxuries. According to Schindler, 200 lawyers applied for 170 jobs in the judiciary in the south-west last year. While 170 jobs may seem sufficient, it does not guarantee the necessary skills in psychology, business, and IT that surpass a brilliant exam. The starting salary for judges and public prosecutors in the southwest is 57,000 euros gross, which is less competitive compared to the private sector.
The need for uniform and higher salaries for the 22,000 judges and 6,200 public prosecutors in Germany has been highlighted by the DRB, referring to the EU Commission's criticism of low salaries across the country. Compared to the average income, judicial salaries in Germany rank among the lowest in Europe. To boost competitiveness, strategies such as regular salary reviews, comprehensive benefits packages, clear career advancement pathways, flexible working arrangements, professional development initiatives, and enhancing the public perception of judges can be employed. International comparisons and financial incentives can also aid in attracting and retaining top talent.
