Superior Court judges in Maricopa County remain in office by the approval of voters in retention elections. There are no opponents in these elections. Every two years each judge undergoes a public review process, including a survey of the judges ability by lawyers, litigants, jurors and staff. Judges face a retention election every four years. Commissioners are appointed by the Court's Presiding Judge from attorneys who apply and are recommended by a selection committee made up of judges, lawyers and others.
Commissioners handle specific assigned cases and uncontested matters.