Consiglio Superiore della Magistratura

The Supreme Judicial Council of Italy, also known as the Consiglio Superiore della Magistratura (CSM), is the self‑governing body of the Italian judiciary. Its principal function is to oversee the recruitment, assignment, promotion and disciplinary proceedings of judges and public prosecutors throughout the country. In addition, the CSM provides mandatory opinions on draft legislation that affects the judiciary and ensures the constitutional principle of judicial independence is upheld. It operates as an independent authority separate from the executive and legislative branches.

The council’s headquarters are located in Italy, specifically in Rome, where its plenary sessions and administrative offices are situated. As a constitutional institution established by the Italian Constitution, its members are drawn from the judiciary and from parliament, giving it a mixed composition that reflects both judicial and political representation. This structure enables the CSM to act as a bridge between the judiciary and the other branches of state while preserving its autonomy.

Distinguishing attributes of the CSM include its exclusive responsibility for safeguarding the independence of individual judges, a role that few other institutions in Italy possess. Its decisions on appointments and disciplinary matters are binding and cannot be overridden by the government, reinforcing the separation of powers. The council also plays a preventive role by issuing advisory opinions on judicial reforms, thereby influencing the development of the justice system before laws are enacted. These characteristics position the CSM as a cornerstone of Italy’s democratic framework and a key actor in maintaining public confidence in the judiciary.