The D.C. Courts are comprised of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals (akin to a state supreme court), the Superior Court of the District of Columbia (DC Superior Court) and the Court System, which provides administrative support to both courts. The D.C. Courts are the third branch of the District of Columbia government. The mission of the DC Courts is: To protect rights and liberties, uphold and interpret the law, and resolve disputes peacefully, fairly and effectively in the District of Columbia. The DC Court of Appeals has nine judges, and several senior judges, and sits in panels of three to hear appeals from decisions of the DC Superior Court and District agencies. The DC Superior Court has 61 associate judges, 24 magistrate judges, a number of senior judges and a chief judge. Magistrate Judges are selected by the Superior Court's board of judges. Associate Judges are selected by the President of the United States from a list of three sent to the White House for each vacancy. The Senate holds hearings and then votes on confirmation. All DC judges live in the District of Columbia.