Final answer:
Federal judges and Supreme Court justices in the U.S. judicial system hold significant influence by interpreting laws and setting precedents, often shaping public policy. Their independence is ensured through lifetime appointments allowing for decisions free from political pressure. Judges also serve various roles across federal district courts, courts of appeals, and special courts, demonstrating a crucial role in the government's checks and balances.
Step-by-step explanation:
Judges play a crucial role in the U.S. judicial system by interpreting the Constitution, laws, and setting precedents that influence public policy. This power allows judges to shape social dynamics significantly, such as by establishing electoral ground rules or declaring term limits unconstitutional. In the United States, the independence of the judiciary is safeguarded through the lifetime tenure of federal judges and justices, which is intended to insulate them from undue political pressure. Federal judges and Supreme Court justices do not face constitutional requirements such as age or residency, and historically, nominees tend to have extensive legal experience, although it is not a requirement. Appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, federal judges serve lifetime appointments under the doctrine of 'good behavior' established by Article III.
Federal judges are involved in nearly 100 Federal District Courts and various circuit Courts of Appeals, as well as other types of special courts such as bankruptcy and immigration/naturalization courts. The compensation of federal judges cannot be diminished during their time in office, further ensuring their ability to make decisions free from financial intimidation. Local judges, on the other hand, may be nonpartisan elected officials, highlighting the diversity in selection processes across different levels of the U.S. court system.
Judges as policymakers: By making rulings on cases, judges often affect, and sometimes make, public policy. This role as policy influencers is critical as they can have a lasting impact on social conflicts and the legal landscape. For instance, the 'one person, one vote' standard and rulings on term limits are examples of how judicial decisions have extended beyond courtrooms into the realm of policy-making.