How to Become a Judge

Judges preside over local, state and federal courts and are either appointed or elected. Federal judges are appointed for life, while the others serve for fixed, renewable terms.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Career Books
• Law School Catalogs
• Judge's Gavel
• Computers
• Online Career Search

1. Become an attorney by obtaining a degree of Juris Doctor (J.D.). You must then pass your state's bar examination and gain experience practicing law.
2. Decide if you would really make a good judge. Ask judges and other legal professionals you know for their honest opinions.
3. Apply for a judgeship when there is an opening in a court of your preference. The procedure for this will vary, depending on the type of court and where you live.
4. Remember that this is a very competitive field and that you will need political support to be appointed or elected. Initially, you will also need to impress judicial nominating commission members, especially for state judgeships.
5. Be aware that orientation and some training are necessary for newly elected or appointed judges. Peruse the National Judicial College Web site (judges.org) for further information.
6. Get used to taking continuing education courses or seminars during the course of your judicial career.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind that while judges generally receive more respect than attorneys, they earn less money.

Who Can Help:

• Earn an Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's Degree from the University of Phoenix
• University of Phoenix, degree Programs to Fit Your Life.