Washington
Washington’s highest court is the Washington Supreme Court. The court has seven justices, one associate chief justice, and one chief justice, who is chosen for a four-year term by a majority of the members of the court. (Source: Washington Constitution)
Judicial Selection
Washington Supreme Court justices are selected through a nonpartisan election, where multiple candidates may vie for the seat. The elected justice serves a six-year term. Justices 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 Washington’s next general election. The elected justice serves the remainder of the unexpired term. There are no term limits. The mandatory retirement age is 75.
State Constitution
Washington’s first and only state constitution was adopted in 1889. As of January 1, 2024, it had 108 amendments. (Source: John Dinan, 2024)
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Missed Opportunities in State Takings Challenges to Pandemic-Era Restrictions
Recent decisions have left Washington State’s protections against the taking of private property below the federal floor. Now Michigan has a chance to do better.
Massachusetts Reminds Youth Defense Attorneys to Consider State Constitutions
By holding that life without parole sentences are unconstitutional for anyone under 21, the Massachusetts high court goes far above the federal floor.
The Writ of Mandamus in State Courts
The centuries-old remedy is increasingly used to force hotly contested political issues before state courts.
2023’s Most Significant State Constitutional Cases
Over a dozen academics, practitioners, and thought leaders weigh in on the most notable state constitutional cases of the year.
State Courts Should Reject Federal Precedent When Interpreting State Contract Clauses
Only one state has interpreted its contract clause differently than the federal counterpart — representing a failure on the part of advocates and judges who believe in state constitutional independence.
Why State Constitutions Matter on Election Day
Two new explainers examine voting rights under state constitutions and how state courts oversee ballot initiatives.
Voting Rights Under State Constitutions, Explained
All but one state constitution affirmatively establishes a right to vote.
Washington Voters Used Their Constitutional Recall Power to Remove School Board Members
The Washington Supreme Court approved the recall effort despite the state constitution’s strict requirements for recalling officials.