Process of appointment

When there is an open judicial position, the president nominates someone to the position. Usually he discusses the nomination with important senators before telling his choice.

The nomination is sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

The Judiciary Committee collects information about the nominee, including a investigation check by the FBI, and investigates the nominee's record and qualifications.

The Judiciary Committee holds a hearing on the nominee. Witnesses speak both in favor and against the nomination. Senators ask questions of the nominee.

The Judiciary Committee votes on the nomination, and then makes a recommendation to a full Senate, that the nominee either be confirmed, rejected. Sometimes they decline to send a nominee to the Senate at all.

The full Senate debates the nomination.

A vote of 3/5 of the Senate is required to end the debate. The vote is called a cloture vote. If enough senators wish to delay a vote on a nominee, they can filibuster by not voting to end debate.

When a debate ends, the Senate votes on the nomination.