A small victory

On November 25, 1842, the debate concerning the salaries of peace judges and court clerks reaches a climax. The government argues that the salary increase proposed by the estates, from 700 to 900 guilders, is too high and suggests setting the salaries lower to save the state treasury. Government member Jean-Baptiste Gellé argues that the existing salaries are sufficient and that no further adjustments are necessary for the requirements of the position. In contrast to this, numerous representatives, including Emmanuel Servais and Norbert Metz, emphasize that the salaries of peace judges must be appropriate to ensure their independence and dignity. The tasks of the peace judges are associated with high professional requirements, which incur substantial costs for training and continuing education. Furthermore, judges should be financially capable of carrying out their positions without economic dependency. The estates argue that inadequate compensation could jeopardize the quality and reputation of the judiciary. Jean-Jacques Willmar ultimately proposes a compromise: salaries of 600 guilders for rural areas, 700 guilders for Diekirch, and 800 guilders for Luxembourg City, with a possible increase after ten years of service. This proposal is accepted, and the salaries are adjusted accordingly. The success of the estates demonstrates that they can assert the arguments for an independent judiciary, even against the resistance of the government.