How long do Supreme Court justices typically serve?

Supreme Court justices typically serve for life, which means they hold their position indefinitely unless they resign, retire, or are removed through impeachment. This lifetime appointment is enshrined in Article III of the U.S. Constitution, which establishes that justices can serve during "good Behavior." The intention behind this provision is to insulate justices from political pressures and allow them to make decisions based solely on the law and Constitution without fear of losing their position due to unpopular rulings.

This system helps to maintain judicial independence, which is crucial for upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is administered fairly. As such, justices can focus on their duties rather than being concerned about re-election or political influence, which can often affect elected officials. The lifetime tenure is a fundamental aspect of the United States' judicial system, distinguishing it from many other positions in government that have set terms or can be removed by popular vote.