Roy A. Schotland
Professor
of Law, Georgetown University Law Center. Senior Adviser, National Center for
State Courts.
Articles by this Author
Judges’ Pay: A Chasm Far Worse Than Realized, and Worsening
- By Roy A. Schotland
- Published 10/7/2007
- Volume 82, Special Issue
For our state judges today, let us put aside
what might be thought their appropriate "reward" compared to the "reward" for
private-sector lawyers. Of course judges earn less than they would in private
practice, and of course judges enjoy "rewards" other than salaries. What is
surprising is how severe the gap is between the pay for judges and for the
private bar—and, strikingly, the gap between the pay for judges and for other
public employees. What is deeply disturbing, indeed dangerous, is how the gaps
are worsening. Our compensation for judges is so low, that by reducing the
caliber and stature of those who are in "the pool . . . willing to serve," this
treatment is the most widespread,
persistent, and damaging attack on judicial independence—as Chief Justice
Roberts said. . . . [for full article click the PDF below]
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