Wyoming Constitution article 5. Judicial Department.
Here’s a summary of Article 5 – Judicial Department from the Wyoming Constitution:
Wyoming Constitution – Article 5: Judicial Department
Purpose:
Article 5 establishes the structure, powers, and duties of the judicial branch of Wyoming’s state government.
Key Provisions:
Judicial Power Vested (§1):
The judicial power is vested in:
A Supreme Court
District Courts
And other courts as established by law (such as county or municipal courts)
Supreme Court (§2 – §5):
Composed of five justices (one of whom is the Chief Justice)
Has appellate jurisdiction over decisions from lower courts
May issue writs such as habeas corpus, mandamus, and certiorari
Justices are appointed and then retained via nonpartisan retention elections
District Courts (§6 – §7):
Serve as the trial courts of general jurisdiction
Handle civil, criminal, probate, and family law matters
Judges also stand for retention elections after appointment
Judicial Qualifications and Discipline (§8 – §9):
Judges must meet age, experience, and residency requirements
Can be removed for cause by the Judicial Conduct Commission or through impeachment
Judicial Elections and Terms (§10 – §13):
Judges (including Supreme Court justices) are initially appointed by the governor from a list of nominees
After serving a short term, they face a yes/no retention vote in a general election
Terms vary (e.g., 8 years for Supreme Court justices)
Judicial Salaries and Administration (§14 – §20):
Judges’ salaries are set by law and cannot be reduced during their term
The Judicial Council and Supreme Court help oversee administration of the court system
Summary:
Article 5 lays out Wyoming’s independent judiciary, including the structure of courts, how judges are selected and retained, and mechanisms for judicial discipline. It emphasizes fairness, integrity, and public accountability through merit-based appointments and retention elections, not partisan contests.
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