Structure of State Courts
The state court system is organized according to a unique mechanism. Each state has its own court system, which includes the organization, processes, and rules governing court cases in that state. State courts are structured differently and differ in regulations, judicial decisions, and procedures.
Selection and Appointment of State Judges
The selection of judges for judicial chambers in each state is based on different procedures, depending on the state. For example, in California, judges are selected in a party election procedure, and in Minnesota, judges are appointed by the president of the Minnesota Judiciary (Judicial Selection: How California Chooses Its Judges and Justices, n.d.). In some states, the procedure for selecting judges consists of a combination of different methods; for example, the president may propose candidates and appoint them by a qualified electorate. All judges are officers of the law and make decisions following state law. They may also be subject to outside pressure, particularly by representatives of various political groups.
Pressures and Challenges Faced by State Judges
Judges must be independent and adherents of the values of jurisprudence, such as lawlessness and justice. Judicial independence must be committed to the whole law and adhere to generally accepted standards of conduct. For example, judges should not consider personal interests or political views when making decisions. They must also act impartially and remain independent of representatives of political groups, the press, or even state institutions.
State Courts Within the Administrative Framework
State court systems are part of a state’s administrative structure and are governed by the laws and processes of each state. A state’s court system provides a place where people can bring their lawsuits and expunge wrongdoing. In some states, justice may be administered according to local traditions. For example, in Alaska, a party agreement and friendly settlement process are possible (Uncontested Matters, Agreements and Settlements, n.d.). This process extends to local matters and does not involve state rules and laws changes.
References
Judicial Selection: How California Chooses Its Judges and Justices. (n.d.). California Courts Newsroom. Web.
Uncontested Matters, Agreements and Settlements. (n.d.). Web.