Oregon
Oregon’s highest court is the Oregon Supreme Court. The court has six justices and one chief justice, who is selected for a six-year term by the other members of the court. (Source: Oregon Judicial Branch)
Judicial Selection
Justices on the Oregon Supreme Court are selected to a six-year term through a nonpartisan election, where multiple candidates may vie for the seat. Justices may seek additional terms through participating in a nonpartisan election. To fill an interim vacancy, the governor appoints a candidate, who holds office until Oregon’s next general election that takes place more than 61 days after the appointment. The elected justice serves a six-year term. There are no term limits. The mandatory retirement age is 75.
State Constitution
Oregon’s first and only state constitution was adopted in 1857. As of January 1, 2024, it had 262 amendments. (Source: John Dinan, 2024)
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We Need to Know More About State Supreme Court Cases
State high courts interpret laws that impact some of the most intimate parts of our lives. Communities have a right to know what’s on the docket.
Voters Across the Country Amend Their Constitutions
Through ballot measures, voters expressed policy preferences on issues including abortion, drug legalization, and same-sex marriage.
State Court Oral Arguments to Watch for in November: Criminal Law Edition
Issues on the dockets relate to the many ancillary consequences that can stem from criminal charges.
2024 Ballot Measures That Could Impact State Courts
Voters in key states will consider judicial retirement ages and ethics.
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.
States Can Protect Unhoused People When the U.S. Supreme Court Won’t
The U.S. high court’s ruling allowing anti-camping laws underscores the importance and potential of state constitutional protections.
To Prevent Chaos and Confusion, Judges Must Prepare for Election Emergencies
In advance of the election, judges should educate themselves on election administration and develop emergency response procedures that will enable creation of effective remedies.
When Does the U.S. Supreme Court Review State Supreme Court Decisions?
State courts have the final word on state law, but when federal law is involved, it can be complicated.