Lifetime appointments refer to the practice of appointing federal judges for an indefinite period, usually until they choose to retire or are impeached. This ensures judicial independence by insulating judges from political pressures.
Related terms
Judicial Independence: The principle that judges should be free from interference or influence by other branches of government so that they can make impartial decisions based on the law.
Impeachment: The process in which a public official, including federal judges, is charged with misconduct and potentially removed from office through a trial in Congress.
Term Limits: A set period during which an individual may hold a particular position before being required to step down or seek reappointment. Unlike term limits imposed on elected officials, federal judges do not have term limits due to their lifetime appointments.