Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s highest court is the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. The court has five justices and one chief justice, who is the longest-serving member of the court. (Source: Pennsylvania Constitution)
Judicial Selection
Justices on the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania are selected to a 10-year term through a partisan election, where multiple candidates may vie for the seat. Justices may seek additional 10-year terms through standing in an unopposed yes/no retention vote. When a seat opens in the middle of a justice’s term, the governor appoints a candidate to fill the vacancy. The governor’s selection must be confirmed by a two-thirds vote of the state senate. The appointed justice holds office until the next municipal election more than 10 months after the vacancy opened, unless the remainder of the seat’s term runs out before then. The elected justice serves a 10-year term. There are no term limits. The mandatory retirement age is 75.
State Constitution
Pennsylvania has had five state constitutions adopted between 1776 and 1968. As of January 1, 2022, it had 36 amendments. (Source: Council of State Governments)
Filters
The Latest Legal Challenge to Reform-Minded Prosecutors
Pennsylvania's Supreme Court will consider whether state legislatures can remove a local law enforcement official.
Pennsylvania Supreme Court Election Could Shape Direction of State Law
The candidates for an open seat on Pennsylvania’s supreme court have very different approaches to legal interpretation.
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.
Interview: The Movement Toward ‘Green Amendments’ in State Constitutions
The founder of Green Amendments For The Generations, Maya van Rossum, discusses the impact of enshrining environmental rights in state constitutions.
Voting Rights Under State Constitutions, Explained
All but one state constitution affirmatively establishes a right to vote.
The Stakes in Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court Election
The outcome could have big implications for abortion rights, elections, and more.
The Federalization Dimension in Takings
The U.S. Supreme Court does not always lead and state courts do not always follow.
Pennsylvania Supreme Court Weighs Whether Cities Can Pass Gun Safety Laws
The case raises state constitutional challenges to a law giving the legislature sole authority over gun regulation.