What is Jalisco’s new Judicial Reform and why is it so controversial?
In recent months, the Judicial Reform in Jalisco has sparked one of the biggest legal and political debates in Mexico. The proposal, promoted by Morena-affiliated legislators, aims to elect judges and magistrates through popular vote, instead of appointments by the Congress or State Executive.
To many residents in Guadalajara, this sounds like “more democracy.” But from a legal standpoint, the reform could deeply affect judicial independence, the politicization of justice, and citizen responsibility.
A constitutional lawyer from the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area stated:
“If judges need to campaign, they will inevitably depend on political or financial interests. That threatens the impartiality required by the Constitution.”
How would the popular election of judges work in Guadalajara?
Proposed process
The initiative suggests organizing local elections every three years, allowing citizens to vote for judicial candidates certified by the State Judiciary.
Each candidate would be required to disclose their experience, professional record, financial status, and a declaration of interests to ensure transparency.
The Electoral and Citizen Participation Institute of Jalisco would organize these judicial elections.
What do Guadalajara’s lawyers think?
Many law firms and bar associations in Guadalajara view this proposal with caution. According to the State Bar Association:
“Popular elections could improve accountability, but without strict oversight, the risk of corruption and political influence is extremely high.”
From a legal practice perspective, lawyers fear that judges may become public figures focused more on popularity than justice.
Legal benefits and risks of the reform
Possible advantages
- Greater transparency and citizen participation.
- End of nepotism or favoritism in judicial appointments.
- Voters can hold poorly performing judges accountable.
Legal risks
- Loss of judicial independence.
- Political campaigns disguised as legal processes.
- Polarization in sensitive rulings (amparos, divorces, criminal trials).
From a constitutional law perspective, the main challenge is balancing popular sovereignty with the principle of judicial impartiality.
How could this directly affect you in Guadalajara?
If you live or work in Guadalajara, this reform might affect how your civil, family, or labor cases are resolved.
A judge chosen through voting could face political or social pressure. This means that the outcome of a divorce, labor claim, or administrative amparo could vary depending on the local political climate.
That’s why having a lawyer who understands the new system will be more crucial than ever.
🧑⚖️ Need legal advice on how this reform could affect your case?
Visit AbogadoMex.mx — connect with constitutional and administrative law experts in Guadalajara who are already analyzing this reform step by step.
Conclusion
Electing judges by vote may sound democratic, but from a legal standpoint, it’s a double-edged sword.
As a citizen, you’ll need to be well-informed before voting. As a legal professional, lawyers will need to adapt to a system where justice becomes more public — and potentially more vulnerable.
The debate has just begun, and what happens in Guadalajara could define the future of Mexico’s judicial system in the coming years.