INCREASE IN JUDGES' ALLOWANCES AS A PREVENTIVE MEASURE AGAINST CRIMINAL ACTS OF CORRUPTION IN INDONESIAN JUDICIAL INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

As a democratic state governed by the rule of law, judges are at the forefront of ensuring the fulfillment of the three main pillars of the legal system: justice, legal certainty, and legal utility. Judges also serve as symbols of the rule of law in Indonesia. In a modern democratic system, the law must be the supreme commander in regulating the social and political life of society. This research uses a library research method with a normative juridical approach and is descriptive-analytical in nature. This approach was chosen because the issues studied are closely related to legal norms. The integrity of judges is a key element in maintaining the credibility of the judicial institution. This integrity encompasses moral aspects, professionalism, and responsibility in carrying out judicial duties. Public trust in the judicial system is the main foundation in realizing the rule of law in a country. Legal legitimacy depends not only on the existence of good laws but also on public confidence that the judicial institution functions fairly, transparently, and free from intervention by any party. The theory used is the New Fraud Triangle Model, which explains that fraud occurs when three elements converge: pressure, opportunity, and rationalization. The implementation of Government Regulation Number 44 of 2024, which regulates increases in judges' salaries and allowances, demonstrates the government's commitment to strengthening the judiciary. This policy is not merely a form of economic reward, but rather part of an institutional reform strategy to prevent judicial corruption. With adequate welfare, judges have a greater ability to maintain their integrity, improve the quality of their decisions, and reject all forms of intervention and gratification that could undermine the credibility of the judiciary.