The seat at Arizona Court of Appeals Division One is set to open as Judge Jennifer B. Campbell steps into retirement, this vacancy prompting a search for eligible candidates who aspire to uphold the mantle of judicial responsibility, as stated in a recent release. With the application window open, those who fit the prerequisite criteria are encouraged to step forward by Jan. 29, 2025, for a chance to be considered for appointment by Gov. Katie Hobbs, according to the Arizona Court of Appeals.
Scrupulous lawyers with at least 30 years of age, a clean moral compass, and five years of legal practice within Arizona, are in a position to submit their credentials, mind the candidates must also have had residency for over a year in certain counties, such as Apache or Yavapai, this detail echoing the state’s commitment to regional representation. The judicial application form needed for submission is available online and can be requested via email or phone, with the current year ushering in an increased annual salary for the position, moving from $190,000 to a notable $200,000, an inducement for quality applicants, as reported by the Arizona Court of Appeals.
The Commission on Appellate Court Appointments, tasked with the critical vetting process, will diligently comb through applications, interview selected candidates, and then recommend a minimum of three nominees for the governor’s final selection. With transparency at the forefront, public access is granted to the Commission’s meetings, although dates for said meetings have yet to be divulged, as stated by the Arizona Court of Appeals.
An original signed application along with all necessary attachments and a searchable PDF counterpart must reach the Administrative Office of the Courts Human Resources Department by the late afternoon deadline, the Commission retains the prerogative to leverage filed applications for any further vacancies that present themselves before they convene for the current vacancy's evaluation, as per the Arizona Court of Appeals. Given the stature and weight of the appellate judge's role, the rigorous selection process reflects the gravity and significance of justice served in the state of Arizona.
