California
California’s highest court is the Supreme Court of California. The court has six associate justices and one chief justice, who is appointed under the same procedures as the associate justices. (Source: California Judicial Branch)
Judicial Selection
The governor nominates candidates to the Supreme Court of California who must be confirmed by a majority of the commission on judicial appointments. The commission consists of the chief justice, the state attorney general, and the senior presiding justice of the state’s courts of appeal. Once confirmed, the nominee stands in an unopposed yes/no retention vote at the time of California’s next general election. Justices serve 12-year terms and may seek additional terms through an unopposed yes/no retention vote. There are no term limits, and there is no mandatory retirement age.
State Constitution
California has had two constitutions adopted in 1849 and 1879. As of January 1, 2024, it had 541 amendments. (Source: John Dinan, 2024)
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What Do State High Court Justices Like About Their Jobs?
Seven justices opened up about the reality of sitting on a state supreme court.
What We Learned From State Ballot Measures
The results of 2024's state ballot measures reveal mixed voter opinions on abortion, workers’ rights, and direct democracy.
Voters in California, Colorado, and Hawaii Signal Support for Marriage Equality
As federal same-sex marriage rights appear increasingly vulnerable, voters are removing discriminatory language from their state constitutions.
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.
A Rallying Cry Against Lockstepping
When state supreme courts peg their constitutions to federal interpretations, they erode the rule of law, undermine federalism, and limit rights protection.
Pennsylvania Faces a Moment of Truth for Life Without Parole
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court is considering whether requiring life in prison without the possibility of parole for so-called felony murder is unconstitutional.