How to Become a Judge
If you have wondered how to become a judge, there are two primary paths you can follow. The underlying foundation in each is obtaining a college education—-preferably in a law-related field—-earned via either an offline or online university and work experience within the legal specialty.
Qualification
Because judges are either elected or appointed, no law degree is absolutely required. However, even community-level judges often have them, for it can be difficult for even online PhD graduates of criminology to gain public faith without a law school’s Juris Doctorate (JD) designation.
The more reliable path would be to earn a bachelor’s degree from one of the top online colleges then attend law school.
Once you receive the JD, however, you still don’t automatically qualify in the eyes of the public. Most voters in a jurisdiction feel they need judges who can actually practice law: The next step is to pass your state bar exam.
Gaining practical experience in your legal specialty after passing the state exam enhances reliability and believability in your qualifications.
The full answer to the question “how do you become a judge” is a long response, for it most often encompasses the four years for a bachelor’s degree, three to four years of law school, the months of study for the bar exam and then gaining the necessary experience of practicing law.
How to Become a Judge by Any Other Name
Arbitrators and magistrates also sit in legal judgment and determine legally binding resolutions, similar to a sitting judge. Basic qualifications are identical between judges and magistrates: Some kind of bachelor’s degree through an accredited offline or online university is highly recommended. Passing the bar exam is recommended, although you do not have to get a Juris Doctorate to take and pass the bar exam.
Magistrates and arbitrators must show reliable demonstration of a thorough comprehension of the law, although most positions focus on particular specialties, such as contract disputes, injury suits and more. Contract law specialists will probably not be assigned child custody arbitration, for example.
The concept applies to the legal profession as it does to most fields of expertise: The greater level of education you earn, the greater your chances of advancement. As you learn more about how to become a judge, you more fully understand that continuing education and maximizing your experience go hand-in-hand with potential for elevation or promotion in that field.
Additional degrees in such related fields of criminology, psychology or police science can expand your legal background and enhance your expertise.
If you aspire to preside over criminal trials, specialize in criminal litigation: Become a defense attorney or a prosecutor.
If you prefer the idea of resolving marriage, custody or juvenile issues, specialize in family legal practices.
Determine what kind of judge you want to be then tailor your education and practical experience to bolster your expertise and chances of sitting on the bench for those legal matters.
Job Outlook For Judges
Job opportunity for judges and magistrates is expected to grow very slowly (more slowly than other jobs), however, due the requirements for the job, there is less competition than in many other fields.
The average median salary for a judge is around $147,108 per year though depending upon where the judge is working this can vary from $40,705 and $180,582.
In 2008 there were approximately 53,000 jobs for Judges, Magistrates, Judge Magistrates and Arbitrators with the top 50% earning at least $140,000 per year.
The highest paying jobs for judges can usually be found in Federal Courts such as the Supreme Court (Chief Justice earns $217,440 per year), however, Federal jobs generally require a great deal of experience. Other high paying jobs for judges include working for state courtrooms in large metropolis areas that can afford to pay more.
Continuing Education For Judges
Many states require that Judges continue their education while in office. Usually this involves annual to bi-annual three week courses that act as an update on laws, law and judicial processes. These courses are provided by the courtroom where the judge holds office and usually come at no cost.
Choose your online school and step confidently along your chosen career path, since you have now learned the basics of how to become a judge.
