Career: Judges
Learned Hand (1872-1961) has been called the greatest American judge never to sit on the Supreme Court. Hand served as a federal district judge in Manhattan and as a judge on the Second Circuit Court of Appeals.
He was known for taking cases that other judges found too complicated. He was also renowned for being open-minded and fair. In his most famous speech, he defined the spirit of liberty as "the spirit which is not too sure that it is right." Hand's legal opinions are still quoted today.
Judges apply the law and oversee the legal process in courts according to local, state, and federal laws. They preside over cases concerning everything from traffic offenses to the rights of huge corporations.
Did You Know?
- For many judgeships, being a lawyer first is a requirement. Even when it's not required, it's usually recommended.
Are You Ready To...?
- Listen to testimony
- Make rulings
- Explain procedures
- Research the law
- Write clearly about complex issues
- Keep up with changes in the law
- Work in offices, law libraries, and courtrooms
- Sit for long periods
It Helps to Be...
Deeply committed to the justice system. You'll need a strong sense of ethics and responsibility in order to make far-reaching decisions. Be ready to balance scholarly activities, such as researching and writing, with communication skills, such as listening carefully and giving instructions.
Make High School Count
- Build excellent reading, writing, and speaking skills. You’ll need them in your work, and you won’t get into law school without them.
- Join the debate team and sign up for speech classes.
- Seek leadership roles in student government, clubs, and other groups -- especially those that require you to make tough decisions.
- Read the news to keep up with legal issues.
- Intern with or work at a law firm.
- Organize a school field trip to a courtroom.
Did You Know?
- Many people avoid costly court trials by going to arbitrators, mediators, or conciliators. These people play a role somewhat similar to judges. The decisions reached with their help may be binding, requiring participants to hold up their end of the bargain.
Outlook
Government economists expect the number of jobs for judges and magistrates to decline moderately between 2008 and 2018. On the other hand, jobs for arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators should grow quickly.
Tight budgets will likely keep governments, especially the federal government, from hiring many judges, despite rising caseloads.
Compensation
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the following 2009 average yearly salaries:
- Judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates: $103,990
- Administrative law judges, adjudicators, and hearing officers: $87,620
- Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators: $63,250
