What is the length of service for federal judges?

Federal judges, including Justices of the Supreme Court, are appointed for life, which means they serve “during good behavior.” This provision is established in the U.S. Constitution, specifically in Article III, Section 1. The framers of the Constitution intended for judicial independence by insulating judges from political pressure and allowing them to serve for an extended period, which helps ensure that they can make decisions based solely on law and justice rather than popular opinion or political influence.

While federal judges can be impeachment and removed from office for misconduct, they do not have a fixed term of years like certain elected positions. This difference is crucial in maintaining the effectiveness and integrity of the judicial system. Other options suggest limited terms or conditions of service that do not reflect the actual constitutional mandate that enables judges to serve for life unless they choose to retire, resign, or are removed under extraordinary circumstances.