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.
Filters
Why Territorial Courts Matter to American Law
The courts of five inhabited U.S. territories regularly confront constitutional questions in ways that are uniquely territorial while deeply connected to broader American constitutional debates.
Proposed Law Could Eliminate the Cap on Number of Judges in New York
The legislation would allow the public to vote on a state constitutional amendment removing limits on the number of judges serving each district. Such a change would alleviate delays and increase access to justice.
The Delaware Constitution: The First of Firsts
Ironically, Delaware is last in allowing its citizens forms of direct democracy.
State Court Oral Arguments to Watch for in May
Issues on the dockets include mid-decade redistricting, defendants’ access to social media evidence, and mandatory judicial retirement.
Former Texas Chief Justice on the Importance of Court Transparency
The Supreme Court of Texas has long allowed cameras in its courtroom and takes the unique approach of allowing clerks to sit in on conferences.
Kentucky High Court Blocks Judicial Impeachment
The state supreme court’s decision asserted judicial authority at a moment when courts’ independence has been under assault across the country.
How Are State Judges Selected?
Thirty-eight states use elections as part of their system for choosing high court judges.
The Hawaii Constitution: Rooted in Culture and ‘Āina (Land)
With extensive protections for the environment, the Hawaii Constitution is a model for other states’ green amendments and public trust provisions.