William O. Douglas holds the record for the longest tenure on the U.S. Supreme Court.
He served for an remarkable 36 years and 209 days, a period that spanned multiple decades and significant legal developments. His service established him as the justice with the most extended time in office in the court's history.
Longest-Serving Justices on the U.S. Supreme Court
The U.S. Supreme Court has seen many justices serve for substantial periods, shaping the nation's legal landscape. The longest tenures are often associated with significant influence on constitutional law and American jurisprudence. Here are the justices who have served the longest based on available records:
| Rank | Justice | Length in Years and Days |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | William O. Douglas | 36 years, 209 days |
| 2 | Stephen Johnson Field | 34 years, 195 days |
| 3 | John Paul Stevens | 34 years, 192 days |
| 4 | John Marshall (CJ) | 34 years, 152 days |
- William O. Douglas was appointed in 1939 and served until his retirement in 1975. His tenure is marked by his strong libertarian views and his significant contributions to environmental law and individual rights.
- Stephen Johnson Field served from 1863 to 1897, a period of immense change following the Civil War, influencing property law and civil liberties.
- John Paul Stevens was on the bench from 1975 to 2010, known for his independent and pragmatic approach to law.
- John Marshall, arguably one of the most influential Chief Justices, served from 1801 to 1835, laying the groundwork for American constitutional law and establishing the Supreme Court's role as a co-equal branch of government.
These justices' lengthy periods of service allowed them to significantly influence the court's direction and interpret the Constitution over many evolving societal and political landscapes. For a comprehensive overview of all justices by their time in office, you can refer to the List of United States Supreme Court justices by time in office.
