What did the Supreme Court decide on February 19?

The Grand Bench found the Security Business Act’s disqualification clause unconstitutional because it barred people under court‑ordered support from security jobs based on status alone. The court denied state compensation, though five justices dissented on that point. The ruling signals future updates to similar clauses across licenses and safety‑sensitive roles.

How does this affect employers in Japan’s security sector?

Employers should stop blanket exclusions and use job‑specific risk assessments. Update hiring forms, policies, and vendor contracts. Train HR and site managers to document decisions tied to actual duties. Expect more applicants, steady training needs, and closer insurer and client scrutiny of supervision and incident reporting standards.

What does this mean for people under adult guardianship in Japan?

Adult guardianship in Japan will not automatically block someone from security work. Applicants can be evaluated on skills, risk factors, and supervision fit for the role. Background checks and safety standards still apply, but decisions should rest on the job’s demands rather than legal status alone.

Will other Japanese laws change after this ruling?

The decision increases pressure to review other statutes and rules that still use a similar disqualification clause. Ministries may issue guidance, and the Diet could propose amendments. Firms should track official notices, procurement rules, and insurance terms, then adjust hiring, training, and pricing once timelines and obligations become clear.

Law and Government

Japan Supreme Court, February 19: Adult Guardianship Job Ban Unconstitutional

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 19, 2026

Adult guardianship Japan took center stage on February 19 as the Supreme Court’s Grand Bench struck down the Security Business Act disqualification clause as unconstitutional. The court denied state compensation but set a clear line for rights and work access. For investors in Japan’s security services and facility operations, this Security Business Act ruling could expand the labor pool and reset compliance practices. We explain who is affected, what changes next, and how to manage hiring and policy risk now.