judgesonmerit.org

As the campaign for Merit Selection progresses, we hear some inaccurate arguments repeated by those who oppose Merit Selection. In an effort to set the record straight, we’ll reveal the truth and clear up these myths.

Myth #1: Merit Selection is Taking Away My Right to Vote for Judges

No one can take away your right to vote. We can only get a Merit Selection system for the appellate courts if the people of Pennsylvania vote for it. This is not something the legislature or Governor can impose on the people. Instead, the people have to vote for it in a referendum.

Additionally, Merit Selection gives the people the ultimate decision about whether a judge stays on the bench. After a judge’s initial four years on the bench, the public votes on whether the judge should be retained. If the judge wins retention, he or she will stand for retention before the public every ten years.

Myth #2: Merit Selection Means a Bunch of Lawyers Will Be Picking Our Appellate Judges

The appellate court nominating commission will be made up of lawyers and non-lawyers. Five public members are appointed by civic groups, unions, business organizations, non-lawyer professional associations, and public safety organizations. These groups can appoint anyone of their choosing — no lawyers required. Also, the Governor is required to include two non-lawyers in his appointments.

There will be a law school dean on the nominating commission, and some lawyers appointed by the Governor and the legislative leaders. But it’s a mix, and like other commissions that currently exist, the non-lawyers will bring a valuable perspective to the screening and evaluation of judicial candidates.

Keep visiting JudgesOnMerit.org to learn the truth about Merit Selection.

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