Frequently asked questions
Common questions about voting in Michigan and using this guide.
What is a state supreme court?
A state supreme court is the highest court in any given state. Every state has its own supreme court, which is the final arbiter of state law. State Supreme Courts often hear appeals from lower state courts. The number of justices, the name, and the purview of the court vary by state.
What do state supreme court justices do?
State supreme court justices interpret the state’s constitution and make final decisions on how state laws are applied. They also serve as the final step in the appellate process, hearing cases from lower courts to determine whether judges applied the law accurately and fairly.
How are state supreme court justices selected?
Unlike U.S. Supreme Court justices, who are appointed by the President and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, voters in 38 states elect their supreme court justices through popular vote or retention elections. In states without supreme court elections, special committees, the governor, and/or the state legislature can select and appoint justices.
Why do state supreme courts matter?
From abortion to voting rights to education, state supreme courts often act as the final backstop to uphold our rights. State supreme court justices wield significant power and, in most states, their unique position as elected officials gives voters a seat at the bench
How are state supreme courts related to the U.S. Supreme Court?
Because they only hear cases involving state law, state supreme courts operate independently of the U.S. Supreme Court. However, in certain circumstances where state and federal law conflict, the U.S. Supreme Court can overturn or uphold a state supreme court’s decision. This has happened recently in cases involving voting rights and abortion rights.
Are state supreme courts partisan?
Whether state supreme court justices represent or are nominated by a political party depends on state law. Eight states, including North Carolina, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, hold partisan elections for their supreme court justices, in which candidates are affiliated with a political party. Some states, like Michigan, have nonpartisan elections, but political parties officially nominate candidates they support.
Who is the Justice Project?
The Justice Project is a nonpartisan organization that seeks to educate voters through reliable information and help them make informed decisions at the ballot box. State Supreme Courts are the final backstop for interpreting laws and upholding our rights. We believe voters deserve accurate information.
How many justices serve on the Michigan Supreme Court?
Seven justices serve on the Michigan Supreme Court. The Court is comprised of one chief justice and six associate justices.
How are Michigan Supreme Court justices chosen?
Michigan Supreme Court justices are chosen through nonpartisan elections when a justice’s term ends. If a vacancy occurs, the Governor can appoint a new justice to fill the seat until the next election, when voters select a justice.
How long do justices serve on the Michigan Supreme Court?
Justices on the Michigan Supreme Court serve 8-year terms. At the end of their term, they can run for reelection. Justices are not term-limited, but they are required to retire by age 70.
What is the current makeup of the Michigan Supreme Court?
The Michigan Supreme Court has 6 justices nominated by the Democratic Party and 1 justice nominated by the Republican Party. Chief Justice Megan Cavanagh and Associate Justices Richard H. Bernstein, Kyra Harris Bolden, Noah Hood, Kimberly Thomas, and Elizabeth M. Welch were all nominated by the Democratic Party when they were elected. Associate Justice Brian K. Zahra was nominated by the Republican Party when he was elected.
Who are the Justices on the Michigan Supreme Court?
There is one chief justice and six associate justices on the Michigan Supreme Court. They are… Chief Justice Megan Cavanagh Associate Justice Richard H. Bernstein Associate Justice Kyra Harris Bolden Associate Justice Noah Hood Associate Justice Kimberly Thomas Associate Justice Elizabeth M. Welch Associate Justice Brian K. Zahra
What are key cases the Michigan Supreme Court has decided?
From abortion rights to workers' rights, the Michigan Supreme Court has issued decisions that impact the lives of all Michiganders. In 2022, when Republicans on the Board of Canvassers tried to block a voter-led initiative to protect abortion rights from being placed on the ballot, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled in favor of allowing the initiative to be placed on the ballot.
Why should I vote in the Michigan Supreme Court race?
The Michigan Supreme Court hears cases and issues decisions that affect every Michigander. We encourage all Michigan voters to do their research and vote in all judicial elections.
When is the next Michigan Supreme Court election?
There is a Michigan Supreme Court election on November 3, 2026. Six candidates are running for two seats on the Supreme Court. Voters can select two candidates. Current Chief Justice Megan Cavanagh and Associate Justice Noah Hood are running for re-election against Michael Warren and Cassandra Morse-Bills, nominated by the Republican Party, and Thomas Howe and Jody White, nominated by the U.S. Taxpayers Party of Michigan.