Judicial Selection and Administration
How judges are selected and how the judiciary operates can impact the role and effectiveness of state courts. Processes for judicial selection may vary depending on both the level of court (trial, intermediate appellate, high court) and the type of vacancy being filled (interim vacancies or vacancies that open at the end of a judge’s term). The most common methods of state judicial selection are merit selection, which involves vetting of candidates by a nominating commission coupled with a retention election, nonpartisan elections, partisan elections, gubernatorial appointment, and legislative appointment. For a breakdown of each state’s judicial selection process, see this interactive map.
Judicial administration refers to the management of the court system, including judicial ethics, security systems, and access to court documents.
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Justices Battle for Control of the Arkansas Supreme Court
A series of disagreements — and resulting disciplinary investigations — threaten to undermine the public’s trust in the court.
In North Carolina, an Attempt to Overturn a Supreme Court Election
The losing candidate for a seat on the high court is trying to have more than 60,000 valid votes thrown out.
Scholarship Roundup: New Year Edition
The last few months brought a rich array of articles and books about state constitutions, courts, and governance.
How the Most Important Judicial Races of 2024 Played Out
The North Carolina race has not yet been called, as the Republican candidate is challenging the eligibility of thousands of voters in litigation that remains pending.
What Do State High Court Justices Like About Their Jobs?
Seven justices opened up about the reality of sitting on a state supreme court.
State High Court Judges Reflect on Their 'Dream Careers'
Eight justices told us how they thought they would spend their lives. Most never imagined they would become judges.
Voters Across the Country Amend Their Constitutions
Through ballot measures, voters expressed policy preferences on issues including abortion, drug legalization, and same-sex marriage.
2024 Ballot Measures to Watch
Voters will decide whether to amend their state constitutions with measures focusing on abortion, election procedures, minimum wage policy, and more.