Our Process
Merit, reviewed in the open
Third Branch PAC conducts a nonpartisan review of judicial candidates based on merit. Candidates complete a questionnaire and participate in a formal interview with a diverse panel. Evaluations focus on legal competence, experience, judicial temperament, and adherence to the rule of law.
Application
Any judicial candidate may seek a recommendation. Applications open ahead of each election cycle and are accepted from candidates in every race we review.
Questionnaire
Candidates complete a comprehensive judicial questionnaire covering background, litigation and courtroom experience, judicial philosophy, and approach to the law.
Panel Interview
An in-depth interview before a panel of interviewers from diverse political backgrounds. Every candidate in a race is offered the same opportunity.
Evaluation
Candidates are assessed on competence, experience, legal expertise, judicial demeanor, work ethic, and adherence to existing law. Party affiliation is not a criterion.
Recommendation
Endorsements are published in full. Where no candidate meets our standard, the race is marked no endorsement.
Seeking an endorsement?
Download the application and return it with your completed questionnaire to begin the review.