How state judges reach the bench

Federal judges all reach the bench the same way, but state judges do not. Each state sets its own method, and many use different methods for different court levels. A few patterns cover most of them.

The main methods

Elections. Some states elect judges on a partisan ballot that shows party labels, and others on a nonpartisan ballot that does not. Judges then run again at the end of each term.

Merit selection. Often called the Missouri Plan, this uses a nonpartisan commission to screen applicants and send the governor a short list to appoint from. The judge later faces a retention election, an up-or-down vote to stay on with no opponent.

Appointment. In some states the governor or the legislature appoints judges directly, sometimes subject to confirmation by another body.

Where to see it

Every state court’s page notes how that court’s judges are chosen and how long their terms run. Browse them from the state courts directory. For the single federal path, by contrast, see how federal judges are appointed.