Advisory Opinion to the Governor Re Judicial Vacancy Due to Resignation

By letter dated June 21, 2010, Governor Charlie Crist requested our opinion on a question of constitutional interpretation involving his executive powers and duties with regard to a judicial vacancy in the Escambia County Court. This request and our response are made pursuant to article IV, section (l)(c) of the Florida Constitution.

Governor Crist’s letter states as follows:

By letter dated May 24, 2010, Judge David B. Ackerman, formerly a county court judge on the Escambia County Court, submitted a letter of resignation to my office. I accepted Judge Acker-man’s resignation on May 28, 2010.

Pri…