Judicial selection in California
From Judgepedia
California uses two different election systems for electing their judges.
Contents |
Trial Courts
Candidates compete in nonpartisan races in June and November of even numbered years. If only one candidate runs in June, election is automatic without the need for a vote and the name is not even listed on the ballot. When two or more candidates run in June, anyone who gets more than 50% of the vote is declared elected. When no candidate gets over 50%, the top two compete in a run-off election in November.
Opposition
About 90% of incumbent judges run unopposed.
Trial Court Terms
Judges of the municipal and superior courts, which are the state's trial courts, serve 6-year terms.
Appellate Courts
Supreme Court and appellate court justices are on the ballot only in November every four years when a governor is being elected. Justices who were appointed after the last gubernatorial election and those who are running for reelection after the expiration of the terms are listed without opposition on a nonpartisan ballot. Voters decide whether they continue in office or not by voting Yes or No. If the vote is No, the governor appoints a replacement who will be on the ballot in 4 years at the next gubernatorial election.
Appellate Court Terms
Justices of the Supreme Court and the courts of appeal serve 12-year terms.
See Also
External Links
References
Portions of this information have been taken from the League of Women Voters of California website.
