Central 46

Central 46 (中央四十, chūō yonjūroku) serves the Shinigami royalty and overall rule of law in the Soul Society. Composed of 6 Judges and 40 Wise men, they reside within a secluded area of the Soul Society known as the Central 46 Compound. They serve as a supreme judiciary organization whose authority puts it in direct control of the legal system. They handle all rulings on Shinigami and souls who have violated prohibitions. Their orders are absolute and no decision has been known to be overturned. Shinigami crimes are judged here, regardless of whether they are committed in the Soul Society or the world of the living. In the event of a Shinigami's execution, they even give leave for the Stealth Force or the Gotei 13 to use lethal force. The 46 do not take kindly to protests or out of order statements. They clearly exhibit tendencies more in line with a military tribunal than a civilian court.

The previous 6 Judges & 40 Wise Men were mercilessly slaughtered at the hands of Sōsuke Aizen, leaving room for a new group to step in. Taken from the wisest that the Soul Society had to offer, the Royal family wanted a group of souls that could hold their own in combat as well. Taking the role of Head Justice, Makki Senjamaru has shown great leadership in leading the new Central 46.

Role in Soul Society
As the overall rule of law within the walls of the Soul Society, they are the final rule on any crime called onto a Shinigami. While crude and merciless in nature, they must be as such to keep a proper society. Openly against any Shinigami who acts on their own free will, the Central 46 seems to strive on dismissing Shinigami of their duties. Another role for the newest Central 46, they are currently in charge of the guarding of the outer wall of the Soul Society. They choose to appoint the proper Shinigami to the role.