Requirements to Become...
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What are the Requirements to Become a Judge?

As a judge, you are responsible for applying the law and overseeing the legal process within courtrooms around the country. From traffic disputes to civil suits to murder cases, you preside over all legal proceedings, ensuring that both sides of any disagreement receive equal treatment under the law. Depending on the type of cases you work on, you might:
  • Allow or reject evidence as admissible to the courts
  • Interpret the findings and testimony of witnesses and experts
  • Sanction improper behavior from anyone within the courtroom
  • Pass verdicts and sentencing
As you can imagine, it is a role that requires tremendous attention to detail, exceptional composure, and unwavering patience. Becoming a judge typically takes time, connections, and a thorough understanding of the law.

What Are the Requirements to Become a Judge?

A bachelor's degree plus sufficient relevant work experience are the only official requirements to become a judge in some jurisdictions. However, the overwhelming majority of judges have law degrees from three-year institutions as well. For federal and state positions, such degrees are usually mandatory.

While the official credentials are relatively easy to acquire, aspiring judges face many other types of hurdles. This is because most positions are elected or appointed. So you need to either have the backing of a strong political ally, or you must have access to a large enough campaign chest to oppose other judge candidates. Obstacles like these help to explain why judges usually begin their posts in the middle or later stages of their careers. It takes time to accumulate the connections, work history, and financing to secure full-time slots. However, you can potentially accelerate this process by publishing articles in law journals, remaining active as a full-time lawyer, and developing contacts with public defender offices.

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