Chess Not Checkers: A Contemporary Analysis on Judicial Retirement and Lingering Justices in the Modern U.S. Supreme Court

In an era where the Court is particularly partisan, Justices choosing to stay on longer due to these motivators is lowering the legitimacy the Court has with the general public. First, partisan effects and interests are explored in regard to how the Court has gotten partisan and the effect that has on judicial retirement. Then, interest groups and their effect on judicial retirement is looked into. Next, it is shown why judicial retirement is significant, and the factor that these external forces play into it is explained. Finally, some recommendations for change regarding the High Court, since there is reform needed in order to preserve the legitimacy of the Court during a time where it is becoming lower and lower.