What describes life tenure for Article III judges?

• A. They serve for life during good behavior
• B. They serve for life regardless of impeachment
• C. They serve for 15-year terms
• D. They are elected by the people

Answer: (A)

To understand life tenure for Article III judges, think of independence as the goal. Article III provides that judges hold their offices for life, “during good behavior,” so they can decide cases without fear of losing their job for political reasons. This long-lasting tenure is meant to insulate the judiciary from electoral or legislative pressures and to maintain consistent application of the law across time.

The phrase “during good behavior” sets the limit: judges can remain on the bench indefinitely, but there is a check on abuse. If a judge engages in misconduct or other disqualifying behavior, they can be impeached by the House and removed after trial in the Senate. That is why life tenure does not mean immunity from removal.

They are not elected by the people, and there is no fixed term like 15 years. Their tenure exists precisely to serve as a stable, independent judiciary.