Federal judges in the United States serve lifetime appointments, meaning they hold their positions for life unless they die, resign, or are removed through impeachment by Congress. This life tenure is established under Article III of the U.S. Constitution and is intended to ensure judicial independence by protecting judges from political pressures and allowing them to make decisions based solely on the law
. While there have been discussions and proposals, including some to limit Supreme Court justices to 18-year terms, no such term limits have been implemented, and federal judges continue to serve indefinitely under the current system
. In summary:
- Federal judges serve for life during "good behavior."
- They remain in office until death, resignation, or impeachment.
- This system is designed to maintain judicial independence.
- Term limits have been proposed but are not in effect.
