What is the term length for Supreme Court justices?

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Master the U.S. Constitution Test. Study with interactive flashcards and in-depth multiple-choice questions, each accompanied by valuable hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Supreme Court justices are appointed for life terms, which means they serve until they resign, retire, or are removed through impeachment. This lifetime appointment is intended to ensure judicial independence, allowing justices to make decisions based on their interpretation of the law and the Constitution without political pressure or the need to seek reappointment. This stability is vital for maintaining a consistent interpretation of the law over time and protecting minority rights against the potential whims of majority rule.

Other options, such as fixed terms of 5 or 10 years, do not reflect the structure designed by the framers of the Constitution. There is also the concept of retirement; while justices can choose to retire, their service can effectively be considered a life term as they are not bound by a set end date. Thus, the life term serves to prioritize judicial independence and integrity.

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