Who is responsible for appointing judges in the state of Arizona?

The Governor of Arizona is responsible for appointing judges to the state judiciary. This includes judges for the Arizona Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, and Superior Court. The appointment process is designed to ensure that judges are selected based on merit and qualifications rather than through direct election, which is intended to maintain the independence of the judiciary.

Once appointed, judges typically serve for a term and may then stand for retention elections, where voters decide whether to keep them in office. This system aims to balance the need for qualified judges with accountability to the public, as it gives the Governor the authority to appoint individuals who are deemed to be highly competent while also providing a mechanism for the electorate to have a say in the judiciary.

The other options listed do not have the authority to appoint judges. The Chief Justice presides over the Supreme Court but does not have the power to appoint judges. The Arizona Legislature's role is primarily concerned with creating laws rather than judicial appointments, and the State Bar of Arizona, while important in regulating legal practice, does not have a role in the appointment of judges.