Career Choice: Judge

What do Judges do?

Judges work for our court system. Judges are in charge of trials to make sure that they are fair. They deal with a wide variety of cases from minor traffic violations to more serious crimes like stealing and murder. They resolve differences between opposing lawyers during trial.

Judges often hold pretrial hearings for cases. They may decide whether a case merits a trial. Judges also tell juries about the law. They research legal issues. Sometimes lawyers or law clerks do research for judges. Judges also write opinions on the law.

In criminal cases, judges decide how long someone will go to prison. In civil cases that may involve money but no crime, judges decide how much money one person must pay another. Judges' duties vary. Some judges deal with cases involving serious crimes. Other judges decide cases about traffic rules, families, and small amounts of money. Some oversee cases dealing with Social Security benefits, the environment, and many other issues.

Judges need to know the law very well. Good judgment and patience are important assets.

Judges do most of their work in offices, law libraries, and courtrooms. Sitting in the same position in the courtroom for long periods can be tiring. Most judges wear robes when they are in a courtroom. Judges often work a 40-hour week. However, many work more than 50 hours a week.

How do I prepare to become a Judge?

A university degree and work experience is the minimum requirement to be a judge. A number of lawyers become judges. In fact, most judges have first been lawyers. Federal and State judges usually are required to be lawyers.

Some judges are appointed for lifetime. Others have terms ranging form 4 to 14 years. All States have some type of training for new judges. Judges take continuing education courses.

What are the earning potentials?

Weekly Earnings (full time and before tax)

• $TBA - All Ages
• $TBA - Ages 20-24

Source: ABS Employee Earnings, Benefits and Trade Union Membership, August 2003.

What are the Job prospects for Judge?

• Very Good
• Good
• Average
• Below Average
• Limited