Judges, including U.S. Supreme Court justices, are appointed for life primarily to ensure their independence from political pressures and influences. The lifetime tenure allows them to make decisions based solely on the law without fearing repercussions such as being fired or having to run for re-election. This system was designed by the founders of the United States to protect the judiciary as an independent branch of government, shielding judges from transient public opinion or political retaliation. The Constitution states that judges hold their offices "during good behavior," which has been interpreted to mean they serve for life unless they resign, retire, or are impeached and removed. This arrangement helps maintain judicial impartiality and stability in the legal system.
Reasons for Lifetime Appointment
- Protects judges from political influence by removing the need to campaign or seek re-election.
- Ensures judicial decisions are made based on law and justice, not popular sentiment or political bias.
- Provides job security and independence for judges to rule fairly.
- Reflects the historical context where judiciary was viewed as the weakest branch and needed protection from pressure by the executive or legislature.
Interpretation and Practice
- The Constitution does not explicitly say "for life" but uses the phrase "during good behavior."
- Judges may serve for life but can be removed if impeached for misconduct.
- Some judicial offices have mandatory retirement ages instead of true life tenure.
This lifetime appointment system remains a critical mechanism for preserving the rule of law and judicial independence within the U.S. government framework.
