The Political Dynamics of Justice Reform in The U.S.

Judicial independence in Singapore is protected by the Constitution of Singapore,
statutes such as the State Courts Act and Supreme Court of Judicature Act, and
the common law. To safeguard judicial independence, Singapore law lays down special
procedures to be followed before the conduct of Supreme Court judges may be
discussed in Parliament and for their removal from office for misconduct, and provides
that their remuneration may not be reduced during their tenure. By statute, judicial
officers of the State Courts, and the Registrar, Deputy Registrar and assistant registrars
of the Supreme Court have immunity from civil suits, and are prohibited from hearing
and deciding cases in which they are personally interested. The common law provides
similar protections and disabilities for Supreme Court judges.
The Chief Justice and other Supreme Court judges are appointed by the President of
Singapore acting on the advice of the Cabinet of Singapore. The President must consult
the Chief Justice when appointing other judges, and may exercise personal discretion to
refuse to make an appointment if he does not concur with the Cabinet's advice.
Supreme Court justices enjoy security of tenure up to the age of 65 years, after which
they cease to hold office. However, the Constitution permits such judges to be reappointed
on a term basis.
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