Connecticut Law ARTICLE V Of the Judicial Department
Connecticut Constitution – Article V: Of the Judicial Department
Purpose of Article V:
Article V of the Connecticut Constitution establishes the judicial branch of the state government, outlining the structure, authority, and organization of the courts and the appointment of judges.
🔍 Section-by-Section Summary:
§ 1 – Judicial Power
The judicial power of Connecticut is vested in:
A Supreme Court
An Appellate Court
A Superior Court
Other inferior courts as established by law
These courts interpret and apply the law in civil and criminal cases.
§ 2 – Appointment of Judges
Judges are appointed by the Governor and must be confirmed by the General Assembly.
This applies to all constitutional courts: Supreme, Appellate, and Superior Courts.
§ 3 – Term of Office
Judges are appointed for a term of eight years.
Upon the end of the term, a judge may be reappointed in the same manner (Governor + General Assembly approval).
§ 4 – Removal of Judges
A judge may be removed by:
Impeachment (by the General Assembly)
Recommendation of the Judicial Review Council
A 2/3 vote of each house of the General Assembly after a public hearing
This ensures accountability for misconduct or incapacity.
§ 5 – Retirement and Discipline
The General Assembly may set rules for retirement, including:
Mandatory retirement age
Pension and benefits
It may also provide procedures for discipline or suspension of judges for cause.
✅ Key Takeaways:
Judicial authority in Connecticut is vested in multiple levels of courts, with the Supreme Court at the top.
Judges are not elected—they are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the legislature.
The Constitution ensures judicial independence, while allowing for removal or discipline when necessary.
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