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NewsKPBS Public MediaOctober 27, 2026San Diego County

Meet the candidates for California Supreme Court Justice

Photo: KPBS Public Media

An associate California Supreme Court justice earns an annual salary of $304,555 and faces voter retention elections every 12 years or during the first gubernatorial election following appointment. The high court reviews appellate court rulings, death penalty sentences, Public Utilities Commission decisions, and disciplinary recommendations for judges and attorneys. Unlike conventional elections, justices do not run against opposing candidates but instead appear on the ballot for a yes-or-no retention vote.

State CourtsJudicial ElectionsPublic AdministrationLegal System
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Why It Matters

California voters decide whether sitting Supreme Court justices remain on the bench for 12-year terms, directly determining the composition of the state's highest court.

Key Facts

Each fact below is taken from the article. Click one to see the exact passage.

Who's Mentioned

OrganizationPublic Utilities Commission“Decisions are subject to Supreme Court appeal and investigates attorney/judge mi”OrganizationCalifornia Supreme Court“Reviews appellate court rulings, death penalty sentences, and Public Utilities C”OrganizationCommission on Judicial Appointments“Confirms gubernatorial appointments of Supreme Court justices”OrganizationCommission on Judicial Performance“Makes disciplinary recommendations for judges”OrganizationState Bar of California“Makes disciplinary recommendations for attorneys accused of misconduct”