Judicial Selection and Independence

Flashcards based on key concepts from the lecture on judicial selection and independence.

Judicial Independence

The principle that judges should be able to make decisions free from political pressures and influences.

Democratic Accountability

The idea that judges are accountable to the public and must align their decisions with the democratic will of the electorate.

Iowa Supreme Court

State court that ruled on the constitutionality of waiting periods for abortions and other reproductive rights.

Unconstitutional

Not in accordance with the constitution; a ruling that a law or decision violates constitutional provisions.

Judicial Selection Methods

Various procedures used by states to choose judges, including elections, appointments by governors, or selections by commissions.

Balance of Power

The distribution of power among the branches of government, aiming to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

Political Maneuvering

Strategies employed by political actors to achieve specific outcomes, often influencing court decisions and judicial selections.

Total Judicial Independence

The ideal state where judges can operate without any influence or pressure from external political forces.

State Legislature

The legislative body of a state, responsible for creating laws, including those that govern the selection of judges.

Judicial Decision Making

The process through which judges reach decisions, reflecting their interpretation of the law and sometimes their political views.