Which is a true statement about federal judges?
A. They are appointed by the Senate. B. They serve five-year terms. C. They are approved by the Supreme Court. D. They serve lifetime terms.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D. They serve lifetime terms.
Federal judges in the United States are appointed for life, which means they can serve on the bench until they choose to retire, resign, or are removed through impeachment. This lifetime appointment is established by Article III of the U.S. Constitution, which states, “The judges, both of the supreme and inferior courts, shall hold their Offices during good Behavior.” This provision is designed to ensure judicial independence, allowing judges to make decisions free from political pressures or the fear of losing their jobs.
When a vacancy arises in a federal judgeship, the President of the United States nominates a candidate. This nomination is then sent to the Senate for confirmation. The Senate Judiciary Committee typically conducts hearings and votes on the nomination before it goes to the full Senate for a vote. A simple majority is required for confirmation, after which the nominee is officially appointed to the federal bench. This process ensures that while federal judges are appointed by the executive branch (the President), their appointment must receive the approval of the legislative branch (the Senate).
The lifetime tenure of federal judges is significant because it allows them to uphold the Constitution and interpret the law without external pressures. This independence is essential for the functioning of a fair and impartial judiciary, which is a cornerstone of the American legal system. However, it is important to note that while they serve lifetime terms, federal judges can be impeached and removed from office by Congress if they engage in misconduct. This provides a check on their power and helps maintain accountability within the judiciary.