New Jersey's Supreme Court says the state's judges don't have to contribute more to their pensions and health benefits.
Tuesday's 3-2 ruling follows a challenge by a state Superior Court judge in Hudson County.
Judge Paul DePascale sued last year, saying a new law requiring increased contributions violates another law that set judges' salaries and said they cannot be reduced.
Attorneys for the state argued that law doesn't apply to other compensation such as pension and health benefits.
Gov. Chris Christie pushed for the legislation and has been critical of judges who have opposed it. He has said he would consider putting the issue before voters in November if the courts didn't rule his way.
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