Frequently asked questions
Common questions about voting in North Carolina 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 North Carolina Supreme Court?
Seven justices serve on the North Carolina Supreme Court. The Court comprises one chief justice and six associate justices.
How are North Carolina Supreme Court justices chosen?
North Carolina Supreme Court justices are chosen through partisan elections when a justice’s term ends. If a vacancy occurs, the Governor can appoint a new justice to fill the seat until voters select a justice at the next election.
How long do justices serve on the North Carolina Supreme Court?
Justices on the North Carolina 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 76.
What is the current makeup of the North Carolina Supreme Court?
The North Carolina Supreme Court is currently made up of 5 Republican justices and 2 Democratic justices. Chief Justice Paul Newby and Associate Justices Phil Berger Jr., Tamara P. Barringer, Richard Dietz, and Trey Allen are all Republicans. Associate Justices Anita Earls and Allison Riggs are Democrats.
Who are the Justices on the North Carolina Supreme Court?
There is one chief justice and six associate justices on the North Carolina Supreme Court. They are… Chief Justice Paul Newby Associate Justice Trey Allen Associate Justice Phil Berger Jr. Associate Justice Tamara P. Barringer Associate Justice Richard Dietz Associate Justice Anita Earls Associate Justice Allison Riggs
What are key cases the North Carolina Supreme Court has decided?
The North Carolina Supreme Court has heard cases affecting North Carolinians' rights, including their right to vote and receive a public education. In 2026, the North Carolina Supreme Court issued a landmark decision in Leandro v. State, which overturned a decades-old law that required the state to fund public education. The Court has also heard redistricting cases in which justices found that congressional maps were drawn to disadvantage certain voters.
Why should I vote in the North Carolina Supreme Court race?
The North Carolina Supreme Court hears cases and issues decisions that affect every North Carolinian. We encourage all North Carolina voters to do their research and vote in all judicial elections.
When is the next North Carolina Supreme Court election?
There is a North Carolina Supreme Court election on November 3, 2026. The candidates are Justice Anita Earls and former State Representative Sarah Stevens. In 2028, three more seats will be up for election.