Introduction to the New Supreme Court of Mexico
The first task of the newly formed Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN), consisting of nine justices set to begin their duties on September 1, will be to establish its powers following the elimination of the First and Second Salons. This information was shared by Loretta Ortiz Ahlf, one of the current justices who will continue her role after being elected by popular vote on June 1.
Proposed Structure and Responsibilities
Ortiz Ahlf explained that her proposal is for the pleno to assume only the functions of a constitutional tribunal, while the remaining matters would be addressed by collegiate courts. She stated that they aim to create a structure similar to the current Salas, adjusting as necessary. The pleno would handle only constitutional tribunal functions, returning the rest to collegiate courts.
Agendas and Distribution of Work
During the first meeting of the nine elected justices on June 23, it was agreed to create a single agenda incorporating everyone’s proposals. The three current justices who will remain in office after being ratified by popular vote (Ortiz Ahlf, Lenia Batres, and Yasmín Esquivel) will continue studying assigned topics that must be resolved by August 31. The remaining pending matters will be distributed among the other six new justices.
Ortiz Ahlf emphasized that all justices, both current and new, will collaborate on a unified plan of work leading to a single agreement. The working group with study and accountancy secretaries will continue their efforts, while new justices will join in handling pending pleadings until their situations are evaluated.
Upcoming Ceremonies
It has been decided that there will be three ceremonies for the new SCJN’s assumption on September 1. These include a swearing-in ceremony in the Senate, the Supreme Court investiture, the first session, and a ceremony with indigenous communities.
Toga Usage
Ortiz Ahlf confirmed that the new justices will indeed wear togas.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the primary task of the new SCJN? The main task is to define the court’s powers following the elimination of the First and Second Salons.
- How will the work be distributed among the justices? The three current justices will continue handling their assigned topics, while the remaining matters will be distributed among the six new justices.
- What ceremonies are planned for the new SCJN? There will be three ceremonies: a swearing-in in the Senate, the Supreme Court investiture, the first session, and a ceremony with indigenous communities.
- Will the new justices wear togas? Yes, the new justices will indeed wear togas.
