Which of the following is a key characteristic of judicial independence?

Judicial independence is fundamentally characterized by judges making decisions free from political pressures. This principle ensures that judges can interpret the law and rule on cases based on legal merit, evidence, and constitutional principles, rather than being swayed by external influences such as political motivations or public sentiment. This independence is crucial in upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights, as it allows the judiciary to function as a check on other branches of government.

In contrast, the other characteristics presented do not align with the tenets of judicial independence. For instance, when judges are elected by popular vote, as indicated in one option, their decisions may be influenced by the desire to retain public support, compromising their impartiality. Similarly, if judicial decisions are swayed by public opinion, it undermines the integrity of the judicial process, potentially leading to biased rulings based on fluctuating societal sentiments rather than sound legal judgment. Lastly, limited terms for judges, while relevant to the structure of some judicial systems, do not inherently ensure independence; judges could still face pressure during their limited tenure from those who have the power to influence or control their reappointment.