Schleswig-Holstein protects bailiffs: 100% reimbursement of costs for West!

Schleswig-Holstein protects bailiffs: 100% reimbursement of costs for West!

The safety of bailiffs is currently in focus. A hectic issue is now being addressed within Schleswig-Holstein - and for good reason. The fatal attack on a bailiff in Bexbach, Saarland, in November 2025 caused a fundamental rethinking process. NDR reports that Schleswig-Holstein is now fully covering the costs of stab-resistant protective vests. That's 450 euros per vest, which you no longer have to pay out of your own pocket.

Justice Minister Kerstin von der Decken (CDU) made this decision after an urgent request from the professional association of bailiffs. The association had already asked for support before the tragic incident. With this measure, the ministry is not only alluding to the increased risk situation, but also to the frequent attacks on bailiffs, which the chairwoman of the Schleswig-Holstein professional association, Mareile Dufke, speaks of.

Growing attacks on elements of the judiciary

Did you know that bailiffs are often insulted, pushed or spat on? That sounds more serious than you think. There are around 130 bailiffs working in Schleswig-Holstein who represent the interests of creditors and debtors - in an increasingly difficult environment. Dufke makes it clear that some bailiffs have already purchased protective vests, but many are hesitant because of the cost. The new regulation could help to reduce this inhibition.

Loud South German newspaper The bailiffs can decide for themselves whether they want to purchase the vests. And there is a small relief: so far the state has only covered half of the costs. Given the new security situation, this rethink is long overdue.

Go to work with a clear conscience

If a bailiff expects resistance, he has the option of calling in the police or witnesses. However, current developments show a clear trend: attacks on the judiciary are apparently increasing. According to reports from SWR This is not an isolated case, but reflects a problem for society as a whole. The situation is made more complex by the fact that bailiffs not only set the legal framework, but are also often viewed as people with little respect for their work.

Schleswig-Holstein is taking a bold step with this quick reaction. If bailiffs feel safer as a result, not only the working atmosphere could change, but also the relationship between them and the public. In a world where feeling safe is more important than ever, this measure is certainly a good start. Whether it will be enough remains to be seen, but it shows that something is finally moving.