The Judicial Nominating Commission (the "JNC") is charged with screening applicants for vacancies on all of Rhode Island’s courts. Upon notification of a judicial vacancy, the Commission advertises for interested candidates, who then complete an extensive application. The Commission then selects candidates to be interviewed, solicits public comment, and conducts background checks. Based on the information developed throughout this process, the Commission votes and submits to the Governor a list of 3-5 highly qualified individuals for each vacancy.

The Commission was created by statute in 1994 is composed of nine Rhode Island residents, of which four must be attorneys. By statute, the Commissioners are appointed by the Governor and various legislative leaders. All Commissioners serve as volunteers.

When there is a judicial vacancy, the JNC will advertise in a number of state newspapers as well as the Bar Association e-mail publication and deadlines for applications will be set out in the ad. If, at that time, you are interested in applying for a vacancy, please click the "Begin the JNC Application Process" link. Each applicant will be given a secure link to upload the application documents. Only the Commission members will have access to the application materials.

Applicants should review the website link "Memo to Applicants".

If you have any procedural questions, or any questions at all for that matter, please contact Laura Jeanne Verdecchia, the Legal Assistant to the JNC, at (401) 455-7611.

Thank you for your interest.