Explore This Path

Judge

💰 Earn $86K-$190K

📚 Doctoral or Professional Degree

⏱️ 48 Month Training

📈 2.5% Job Growth

Shape justice by making crucial decisions in criminal and civil court cases.
Ensure fair trials and uphold the law, impacting society positively.
Unique role: officiate weddings and guide juries in legal proceedings.

What Judges DoArbitrate, advise, adjudicate, or administer justice in a court of law. May sentence defendant in criminal cases according to government statutes or sentencing guidelines. May determine liability of defendant in civil cases. May perform wedding ceremonies.

Sentence defendants in criminal cases, on conviction by jury, according to applicable government statutes.
Monitor proceedings to ensure that all applicable rules and procedures are followed.
Instruct juries on applicable laws, direct juries to deduce the facts from the evidence presented, and hear their verdicts.
Write decisions on cases.
Read documents on pleadings and motions to ascertain facts and issues.

Judges Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationDoctoral or Professional Degree

Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)

Training TimeOver 4 years

Job Openings900 Annually

Median Earnings

$156,210 in California

$156,210 Nationally

$25K

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@judgeshequittakelly

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Influencing or leading others
Relating with or serving others

you value

Accomplishing things
Having freedom
Personal relationships

you are skilled in

Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Writing
Learning Strategies
Instructing

Go Deeper: Judges Explained

JudgeExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years

Hybrid CollegeA hybrid college combines online learning with the student support typically offered on college campuses, giving students flexibility and accessibility while still providing a comprehensive educational experience.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years

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What Is the Law & Public Safety Industry?