The New Jersey State Bar Association commends Gov. Mikie Sherrill for upholding the Association’s longstanding, nonpartisan role in reviewing candidates for judgeships and county prosecutor positions under a renewed Judicial Compact.
The updated agreement, signed by the NJSBA and Governor Sherrill on Feb. 17, ensures that prospective nominees to the bench and county prosecutor offices undergo a comprehensive and inclusive vetting process that draws upon a range of perspectives from across the New Jersey legal community. Through its Judicial and Prosecutorial Appointments Committee (JPAC), the Association conducts confidential, nonpartisan evaluations to provide the governor with thorough assessments of each candidate’s qualifications for service.
NJSBA President Christine A. Amalfe expressed appreciation to Governor Sherrill for continuing the historic partnership between the governor’s office and the state bar, in place since 1969, emphasizing the shared commitment to maintaining a highly qualified and independent Judiciary.
“The strength of our democracy rests on courts that are impartial, independent and guided only by the rule of law,” Amalfe said. “By participating in this process, the NJSBA helps safeguard those principles. We will continue to carry out this responsibility with diligence and an unwavering commitment to the people of New Jersey.”
For five decades, dating back to the administration of Gov. Richard J. Hughes, the agreement known as the Hughes Compact has been an important component of New Jersey’s judicial selection process, allowing JPAC to provide governors of both parties with informed, nonpartisan guidance in evaluating individuals who will preside over the state’s courts and prosecutor offices.
Association leaders said the continued partnership helps sustain New Jersey’s national reputation for excellence, professionalism and integrity within its legal system - a standard the NJSBA is committed to upholding under the current administration.