The chapters in this handbook reflect on aspects of judicial decision-making in U.S. courts, with a focus on the factors and institutional dynamics that shape the choices judges make. The authors have provided chapters that describe existing research on multiple aspects of the decision-making process and environment, including chapters on judicial appointments and elections, court personnel (law clerks), trial and appellate processes, precedent and case selection, lawyers, litigants and interest groups, intergovernmental dynamics and the separation of powers, judicial attitudes and background characteristics, public opinion, and judicial impact and the implementation of court decrees.