Annotation

The article assesses the conformity of legal provisions establishing a limited term of office for a justice of the peace upon initial appointment (election) with the constitutional principles of judicial independence and irremovability. The author provides a review of critique directed at the legislator regarding the introduction of such a "probationary period". The paper assesses positive consequences of implementation of the principle of irremovability of judges that ensures stability of the judicial system and risks of potential dependence of lay justice on regional legislative authorities appointing justices of the peace. Relying on the position expressed in multiple international documents, the author concludes that the idea of limitation of the first term of office for a justice of the peace is justified as it facilitates the development of the human resource potential of the judicial system, prevents stagnation of personnel, and encourages judges to pursue professional growth.