Michigan
Michigan’s highest court is the Michigan Supreme Court. The court has six associate justices and one chief justice, who is selected by the members of the court. (Source: Michigan Supreme Court)
Judicial Selection
Michigan Supreme Court justices are chosen through a nonpartisan election (though candidates may be nominated at political party conventions), where multiple candidates may vie for the seat. The elected justice serves an eight-year term and may seek additional terms through nonpartisan elections. When a seat opens in the middle of a justice’s term, the governor appoints a candidate to fill the vacancy. The appointed justice holds office until Michigan’s next general election. The elected justice serves the remainder of the unexpired term. There are no term limits, but a justice may not be appointed or elected after age 70.
State Constitution
Michigan has had four state constitutions adopted between 1835 and 1963. As of January 1, 2024, it had 37 amendments. (Source: John Dinan, 2024)
Filters
Takings Clause Victory Would Not Fix Michigan’s Tax Foreclosure System
Cases challenging the constitutionality of government profits from foreclosure sales distort real sources of injustice.
Where Abortion Rights Could Be on the Ballot in 2024
As many as 14 states could have abortion-related constitutional amendments on the ballot this year.
The Major Questions Doctrine in Michigan
A Michigan appellate court declined to apply the major questions doctrine for now but left open the possibility of its future adoption.
State Supreme Court Elections to Watch in 2024
Key races in Michigan, Montana, Kentucky, and Ohio will shape state law on reproductive rights, criminal justice, and much more.
Minnesota Provides Stronger Search and Seizure Protections Than Fourth Amendment
A recent decision demonstrates the importance of state constitutions providing their own bases for remedies, not just protecting rights.
Arizona Ballot Measure Would Make It Harder to Amend State Constitution
Procedural changes to the amendment process — like one proposed in Arizona — could have high stakes for democracy.
How State and Local Election Certification Works
The process is designed to withstand election denialism.
Unpacking the Legal Challenges to Trump’s Ballot Eligibility
The vast majority of cases aiming to remove Trump from the ballot have been dismissed, but without deciding whether he’s eligible to hold the presidency.