Also called: State Judge, Circuit Judge, Superior Court Judge
Runs a courtroom, rules on evidence, decides cases, and sentences people found guilty.
A trial judge might start the day with a crowded docket of quick hearings, then preside over a jury trial all afternoon, ruling on objections in seconds. Back in chambers they read motions and write decisions. Depending on the state, judges are elected or appointed.
State pay varies a lot; some part-time local judges earn much less.
Professional degree (MD, JD, DVM…), about 17 years after high school. Bachelor's, JD, bar license, and usually 10-15+ years as a practicing lawyer before appointment or election.
Ways in: 4-year college, Professional school. Training cost: Over $150k.
Majors to look at: Political Science, History, Philosophy, Criminal Justice, English.
Growing slowly (about 1% over 10 years). BLS 2024-34 for judges and hearing officers overall.
Low risk for 10 years. AI may summarize filings and manage dockets; ruling on evidence, sentencing and running a courtroom stay with elected or appointed humans.
Classes: AP U.S. Government, Speech and debate, AP English Language, Psychology.
Official data: O*NET occupation 23-1023.
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