Judges are arbiters of the law
A judge is an arbiter of justice who has the power of interpreting the law. He runs trials, issues opinions, and manages a caseload. Traditionally judges wear long robes and sit on a platform behind a large bench or desk during trials. To become a judge one must hold a law degree, typically pass a state bar exam to become a licensed attorney, and be elected or appointed as a judge
Juris Doctor Degree
A Juris Doctor degree, which is required to become a judge, is generally a three-year course of study that follows undergraduate education. It involves the rigorous study of law with coursework in torts, contracts, property law, constitutional law, civil and criminal procedure, as well as ethics. It may have a practical component in the form of clinics, practicums and externships with judges and law firms. A prerequisite to sit for a state's bar exam is having a law degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school.
Membership in a State's Bar
Being a member of a state bar is usually a requirement to be a practicing attorney. The state bar application process begins when a candidate is in law school. The state bar will evaluate a candidate's character and perform a complete background check. Then, upon approval, a candidate will sit for a state bar, which is an exam that tests a candidate's mastery of both state law and more general law concepts. Most states also require candidates to pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination, which is taken in law school. Upon completion of all these steps, and timely payment of fees, a person can become a member of a state bar.
Election or Appointment as a Judge
The process of becoming a judge differs depending on the type of court. Many local and state judges are elected in general elections. Other judges, such as those at the federal level, including circuit court, court of appeals, bankruptcy and Supreme Court judges, are appointed. Some state judges are appointed as well. For appointments, having political connections and sharing the political beliefs of the appointing individual or organization may be factors in receiving a judgeship.
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