Chief Justice
This is a title given to the highest-ranking official in the Supreme Republic's judicial system. the Chief Justice is the presiding judge on the Supreme Court of the Supreme Republic. The vote of the Chief Justice carries the same weight as other justices but the Chief Justice has sole authority to rule on procedural matters while the court is in session. He also serves on the legal committee that writes out the rules of procedure used by all lower courts, though these rules are only rearticulations of precedent set out in court decisions.
Qualifications
There are very few requirements for qualification for this position. They must at least be a Doctor of Jurisprudence, and it is recommended that they have prior experience practicing law, though there is no requirement that they practice as a barrister. Most often, the Chief Justice will have served as a judge of another court, though they do not have to be chosen from the associate justices on the Supreme Court.
Appointment
The President of the Supreme Republic selects a candidate for Chief Justice (as well as other justices/judges in the federal judiciary). Then, the Senate meets to confirm the appointment, oftentimes talking to the candidate, sort of like a job interview. If the Senate votes in favor of their appointment, they are sworn in as soon as possible and their term begins the moment they are duly sworn.
Duties
The Chief Justice presides over all proceedings in the Supreme Court and decides issues of procedure. He also serves as the administrative head of the Court. When voting in the court, the Chief Justice is treated the same as other justices.
The Chief Justice also serves on a committee that articulates the rules of procedure that lower courts follow, though this is not officially connected with his position as Chief Justice, and the rules laid out by the committee are only restatements of court decisions.
Benefits
The Chief Justice receives a salary that remains constant throughout their entire term. No adjustment can be made to the salary; that way there can be no undue influence exerted on the Chief Justice.
The Chief Justice is also provided a residence in Edhenin, which is especially useful if the person appointed is not from Edhenin.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
The Chief Justice holds office during "times of good behavior" which means that they serve for life unless they commit a crime. In that case, the House of Representatives can issue an article of impeachment, which is delivered to the Senate. The Senate then has to hold a trial, which is unconnected to any criminal litigation that might occur and is only for the purpose of deciding removal.
Type
Civic, Law
Status
Active
Form of Address
The Right Honorable
Equates to
This position is essentially the same as any head judge position on a multi-judge panel.
Source of Authority
Length of Term
Life or Retirement
First Holder
Related Locations
Related Organizations
Comments