The merit plan for selecting judges is sometimes referred to as the "Missouri Plan." This method combines appointment and election by initially appointing judges based on their qualifications and then subjecting them to periodic retention elections, allowing voters to decide whether to keep them in office. It aims to reduce political influence in the selection process while ensuring accountability to the public.
a nonpartisan commission that reviews the qualifications of applicants for judicial office
Another name for the merit selection of judges is the "Missouri Plan" or the "Judicial Merit Selection System." It is a method used to appoint judges based on their qualifications and experience rather than through political appointments or elections.
Benjamin Franklin's The Way to WealthThe people is the answer to the question"... I concluded at length, that the people were the best judges of my merit; for they ..."
Missouri
Missouri bar
In 2013, the criteria for selecting National Merit Scholars included high scores on the PSAT/NMSQT exam, academic performance, a recommendation from a school official, an essay, and participation in extracurricular activities.
The general conclusion on the differences between merit selection and elective systems for judges centers around accountability and qualifications. Merit selection emphasizes the appointment of judges based on qualifications and professional competence, often involving a nominating commission to ensure impartiality. In contrast, elective systems prioritize direct accountability to the electorate, allowing voters to choose judges, which can lead to concerns about political influence and campaign financing. Ultimately, the choice between these systems reflects a balance between judicial independence and public accountability.
it has developed into more of a merit-based system for selecting officals
The most common method for selecting judges in the United States is through elections, either partisan or nonpartisan. In partisan elections, candidates are affiliated with political parties, while in nonpartisan elections, they do not run under party labels. Other methods include gubernatorial appointments, often with legislative confirmation, and merit-based selection systems, where judges are appointed based on their qualifications and then face periodic retention elections. Each state has its own system, leading to significant variation across the country.
the criminal justice system allows judges and prosecutors to treat each case on its own merit.
Many judges are state and federal judges, so perhaps their jurisdiction is extended beyond the county they are in. If a search warrant is presented to you by the police, you can be certain it has merit just as it stands.
Judges in Florida are selected 1 of 2 ways. The lower level judges are selected through a public election The higher level judges are selected through a merit selection. A merit selection is when the board comprises a list of possible judge selections and the governor of the state then picks one from that list. After the judge has served his/her first term (4 years) he/she must attend a retention hearing to see if they will continue to serve as the judge.