The House like the Senate is reapportioned every 10 years when the federal census is released. Its powers are exercised primarily through courts established by the State Constitution. Florida's judicial branch consists of a series of courts with differing levels of authority and jurisdictions. This highest of state courts consists of seven members, each appointed by the governor, and confirmed by a vote of the people at the next general election. Each is appointed for a six-year term.
Justices select one of their own to be chief justice for a two-year term.
The Supreme Court hears appeals directly from trial courts in criminal cases then the death penalty has been imposed, and in civil cases when the trial court's decision passes on the validity of a state or federal law, a treaty , or a provision of the state or federal constitution or in cases concerning the validity of revenue or general obligation bonds. All other appeals must be processed through a district court of appeals. The state has five appellate districts. More than 50 judges sit on the five appeals courts, each elected to six-year staggered terms. They have jurisdiction of all appeals not directly appealable to the Supreme Court or to a circuit court.