More and More Judges in Israel Are Retiring Early

What the Data Show

The statutory retirement age for judges is 70, compared with 67 for most workers. The higher retirement age is intended to strengthen judicial independence and reduce judges’ dependence on political actors. Representatives of the judicial system emphasize that the figures in themselves are not exceptional and that the circumstances of retirement differ for each judge.

Pensions and a New Career

Of the 15 judges who retired early in 2023, eight were eligible for a budgetary pension. By 2025, 16 of the 26 judges were eligible. This mechanism calculates payments based on final salary and seniority, and after retirement, former judges can continue their careers as mediators or arbitrators, with more flexible schedules.

Workload and Burnout

Former judges describe working hundreds of hours a month, holding hearings four to five days a week, and drafting decisions in the evenings and on weekends. One judge reported working 300–350 hours a month. According to media interviewees, reductions in technical support and the transfer of some administrative tasks to judges created an additional burden.

Public Pressure and the Minister’s Response

Another factor cited was public criticism of the judicial system and political attacks, which intensified during the debate over the judicial reform and continued during the war. The office of Justice Minister Yariv Levin said that he is advancing the reform to strengthen public trust, has added dozens of judicial positions, and has appointed 290 new judges—about one-third of all judges. The source does not report a court ruling or a new legislative change: the publication concerns a staffing trend.

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