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, 2022, it had 34 amendments. (Source: Council of State Governments)
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States and Feds Diverge on Fair Sentencing Practices
Though U.S Supreme Court justices pledged respect for acquittals earlier this week, state courts have proven more willing to protect people from serving prison time for crimes a jury found they didn't commit.
Why State Constitutions Matter on Election Day
Two new explainers examine voting rights under state constitutions and how state courts oversee ballot initiatives.
How Courts Oversee Ballot Initiatives
State courts — and to some degree federal courts — play a significant role in every stage of the direct democracy process.
Voting Rights Under State Constitutions, Explained
All but one state constitution affirmatively establishes a right to vote.
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Expedited judicial rulings may not always be problematic in the state context.
Novel Justice Solutions from State Supreme Courts
State supreme courts can spur culture change and innovation that promotes access to justice.
Abortion and Original Jurisdiction
State supreme courts’ authority to bypass lower courts makes them key players in the fight over reproductive rights.
Catching Up with State Courts
State courts have had a busy summer, with key rulings on abortion, guns, and environmental rights.