John R. Byrne
Federal judges have life tenure. But how long should they serve? In 2023, the average retirement age in the United States was 62 years old. But, according to this recent article from NBC News, the average age of a federal judge is 69. And though federal judges can take senior status starting at age 65, many who are eligible choose not to do so.
Is there a way to further incentive judges to take senior status when eligible? And is that even necessary? As the article discusses, the average age of those serving in other branches of government has also increased. And in cases where there are concerns about the competency of a federal judge, colleagues have stepped forward to gently (and sometimes not so gently) pressure them to step down.
What do you think?