Chief Justice Opposes Legislation For 2-Year Judicial Terms

North Carolina's top judge is speaking out against legislation proposing 2-year judicial terms.

Republican Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Martin says the suggestion by some GOP legislators to reduce elected judges' terms "would disrupt the administration of justice."

Martin was speaking to judicial workers. He joins Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper in opposing the idea.

Appeals Court and Superior Court judges currently serve eight years and District Court judges four. Any proposed changes would need statewide voter approval.

Martin says two-year terms would force constant campaigning and fundraising upon judges whose primary job is to be accountable to the law.

General Assembly leaders say it's among several ideas being considered to change judicial elections, including ending head-to-head races.

Martin supports a referendum on what's called "merit selection,” a process that would combine judicial appointments with retention elections.