Why would the founding fathers not have requirements for judges, why are they appointed and not elected?

The founding fathers wanted wise judges -- and wisdom doesn't necessarily come with degrees. Besides, the only requirements for any public office is citizenship and a minimum age. If judges were elected, it was feared, they might favor people who helped them get elected. By being appointed, it was hoped that the judges would be wise and impartial.

The founding fathers of the United States had various reasons for not including specific requirements for judges in the Constitution, and for appointing judges rather than making them elected officials. To understand this, it is important to consider the context in which the Constitution was created and the principles that guided the framers.

1. Independence and impartiality: The primary goal of the founding fathers was to establish a system of justice that is independent from political influence and fosters impartiality. By appointing judges rather than electing them, they aimed to shield the judiciary from the pressures and biases associated with political campaigns and electoral politics. This helps judges make decisions based on the law and the Constitution, rather than being influenced by popularity or public opinion.

2. Expertise and qualification: The framers believed that judges should possess extensive legal knowledge, expertise, and experience in order to interpret and apply the law correctly. Instead of imposing specific requirements in the Constitution, they viewed the appointment process as an opportunity to select individuals with the necessary qualifications and competence for the role. By doing so, they aimed to ensure a higher level of legal expertise and prevent unqualified individuals from holding judicial positions solely due to popular support in an election.

3. Stability and judicial independence: Appointing judges provides a level of stability to the judiciary. Judges appointed for life or with long tenures can make decisions without concerns about re-election or political pressures. This helps maintain the separation of powers and the integrity of the judicial branch as a co-equal branch of government.

It is worth noting that while the Constitution does not specify requirements for judges, subsequent laws at both the federal and state levels have established certain qualifications, such as legal degrees or prior legal experience. Additionally, judges are often subject to confirmation by legislative bodies, such as the U.S. Senate, to ensure their qualifications and suitability for the position.