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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Seventh Legislature, Second Regular Session
justices; judges; mandatory retirement age
Purpose
Subject to voter approval, constitutionally raises the mandatory retirement age for justices and judges of courts of record from 70 years of age to 75 years of age.
Background
The Arizona
Constitution establishes the retirement requirements for justices and judges of
courts of record. Currently, a justice or judge must retire upon reaching 70
years of age, at which time the judicial office becomes vacant. Retired
justices and judges who receive retirement pay may be temporarily called back
to serve and are entitled to compensation and expenses as provided by law. Judicial
offices may also become vacant upon death, voluntary retirement or resignation
or failure to be retained by voters under Arizona's judicial retention system (Ariz.
Const. art. 6
§§ 20
and 39)
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund associated with this legislation.
Provisions
1. Raises, from 70 years of age to 75 years of age, the mandatory retirement age for justices and judges of courts of record.
2. Requires the office of a justice or judge to become vacant upon attaining 75 years of age, except as otherwise provided by the Arizona Constitution.
3. Makes technical changes.
4. Becomes effective if approved by the voters and on proclamation of the Governor.
Prepared by Senate Research
February 6, 2026
ZD/MY/ci