How to Evaluate Judges

Because millions of Florida voters leave the ballot blank for judicial races The National Association of Women Judges created the following three documents.  They explain the difference between trial and appellate judges, suggest questions to consider when evaluating a candidate's qualifications, and provide resources for learning more.

1. The Guide for Florida Voters provides an overview of the judiciary in Florida.
2. For suggested criteria for evaluating a judicial candidate and resources for more information, read How to Judge a Judicial Candidate.
3. Evaluating Appellate Judges provides more considerations specific to  retention races.

Trial judges are elected in non-partisan races in the Primary; Appellate judges appear on the General Election ballot in retention elections.

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in their government.  
The information on this page is part of our efforts to educate citizens.  
​The League does not support or oppose any political party or candidate.