We review judges who want to continue serving on the same court after their current term ends. Through the judicial reappointment process, we evaluate eligible judges and make recommendations for reappointment. This process helps ensure that judges continue to meet the qualifications expected for judicial service.
Who is eligible for reappointment?
We consider the following judges for reappointment:
- Superior Court judges
- Appellate Court judges
- Supreme Court justices
- The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
State referees, judge trial referees, and senior judges do not go through the JSC's reappointment review process because they are appointed or retained under a different statutory process.
What do we review?
When evaluating a judge for reappointment, we consider:
- Legal ability
- Competence
- Courtroom management
- Character
- Temperament
- Other relevant information related to judicial service
What happens during the review process?
When a judge applies for reappointment, the JSC reviews the application and evaluates the judge's qualifications.
The process typically includes:
- Reviewing application materials
- Interviewing the judge
- Evaluating information related to judicial service
- Making a recommendation on reappointment
In limited circumstances, State law allows the Commission to hold a hearing before making a final recommendation.
What are the key deadlines?
State law establishes several important timelines:
- If a hearing is required, we must provide notice at least 180 days before the legislative session that will consider the reappointment.
- The hearing must take place 30 to 45 days after notice is provided.
- We must issue a decision within 20 days after the hearing closes.
Reappointment and elevation are different processes
What is reappointment?
Reappointment is the process used when a judge seeks another term on the same court. The Judicial Selection Commission reviews eligible judges and decides whether to recommend them for reappointment.
- Judges seeking another term on the same court go through the reappointment process.
- The JSC reviews the judge's qualifications.
- The Commission decides whether to recommend the judge for reappointment.
What is elevation?
Elevation is a separate application process for judges seeking a different judicial position.
- Elevation uses a different application than reappointment.
- Judges must complete the appropriate elevation application for the position they are seeking.
- Application requirements vary by position.
Looking for a different application process?
Find judicial appointment information
Explore judicial elevation opportunities