retention

Definition

In the context of the judiciary, retention refers to the process through which judges remain in their position for an additional term without facing election but rather by receiving a majority yes vote from the electorate. It is a method used predominantly in some states of the U.S. where judges undergo periodic retention evaluations instead of competitive elections.

Analogy

Consider retention in the judiciary as being similar to renewing a library book you've already checked out. Instead of returning the book and checking it out again through a regular process (election), the library allows you to keep it longer if there's no demand from others (vote of confidence), ensuring stability and continuity.

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