A controversial bill to split up Italy's judiciary has been unveiled in Rome by Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's government.
The bill, which faces a lengthy passage through parliament, would force magistrates to choose between a career as a prosecutor or a judge.
Prosecutors and judges can currently switch between the two career paths.
Critics say Mr Berlusconi is seeking to punish magistrates for the numerous trials he has faced or is facing.
He is due to stand trial in four cases over the coming months, including one linked to allegations that he paid an underage prostitute for sex.
Mr Berlusconi has denied all allegations against him, saying the cases are politically motivated.
Powerful, independent magistrates have played a key role in Italian society, notably in the 1990s when the "Clean Hands" inquiries uncovered huge corruption and led to the overhaul of the political system. BBC News
