Charles T. Wells
(Chief Justice)
A strong organizer, he is friendly to civil plaintiffs but conservative on criminal-justice issues - a trait that has recently distanced him from some liberal judges.
Age: 61
Born: Orlando
Appointed by: Gov. Lawton M. Chives (D), 1994
Background: Trial and appellate lawyer

Leander J. Shaw Jr.
Facing mandatory retirement soon, he has become one of the court's liberals in rent years, as well as a defender of court's independence.
Age: 70
Born: Salem, VA
Appointed by: Gov. Bob Graham (D), 1983
Background: State prosecutor in Jacksonville, appeals-court judge.

Major B. Harding
A former Republican who is now independent, he recently sided with the liberal wing in overturning a death-penalty statute, angering lawmakers.
Age: 63
Born: Charlotte, NC
Appointed by: Gov. Chiles, 1991
Background: Trial judge in Jacksonville

Harry Lee Anstead
A former trial lawyer who was raised in public housing in Jacksonville, he is a careful researcher and one of three established liberals on the court, along with Parlente and Shaw.
Age: 63
Born: Jacksonville
Appointed by: Gov. Chiles, 1994
Background: Trial lawyer, appeals court judge in West Palm Beach.

Barbara J. Parlente
A former director of Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers, she is viewed by some observers as the liberal wing's organizer.
Age: 51
Born: New York, NY
Appointed: Gov. Chiles, 1997
Background: Trial lawyer, appeals court judge in West Palm Beach.

R. Fred Lewis
Interested in children's issue and victim's rights, he is a former civil litigate who has no previous judicial experience.
Age: 52
Born: Beckley, W. VA
Appointed: Gov. Chiles, 1998
Background: Trial and appellate lawyer in Miami

Peggy A. Quince
A former longtime appellate lawyer for Democratic Attorney General Bob Butterworth.
Age: 52
Born: Norfolk, VA
Appointed: Gov. Chiles and Gov.-elect Jeb Bush (R), 1998
Background: Appellate lawyer and appeals-court judge in Tampa.