4 answers
2
Asked 2321 views

What is the path to get from high school to becoming a Judge?

What are some of the paths to getting from beginning of high school to becoming a judge? I know there are many types of judges, so please specify what type you're referring to in your answer. What types of extracurriculars are useful?

Thank you in advance! #career-paths #extracurriculars #legal

career-paths extracurriculars legal
Answer This

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you
2

4 answers

1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

J’s Answer

<html><head></head><body>

There are federal judges and there are state judges. Federal judges are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate--these include judges on the Supreme Court, US Court of Appeals, and US District Courts. State judges are sometimes appointed (e.g., California) while other are elected (e.g., New York)--for details see this.


Working backwards, this means you have to:




  1. build political connections with a political party (either Democrat or Republican) so that when they are in power, you can get appointed, or you can run for offic




  2. have experience working as a lawyer, and perhaps have experience clerking for a judge. This means you have passed the bar exam in the state you're working in, and that you applied for and obtained a clerkship when you were in law school




  3. graduated from law school. This means you took the LSAT and were accepted into a law school




  4. graduated from college. Which means you applied for and completed college, and likely that you graduated with a pretty good GPA



</body></html>
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

CareerVillage’s Answer

It's a long road to becoming a judge, and not necessarily a direct one. But all judges have the following:



  • finished college

  • finished law school

  • practiced law, either in private practice or as a public prosecutor/defender
1
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jared’s Answer, CareerVillage.org Team

<html><head></head><body>

See also, this great answer to the related question about becoming a Supreme Court Justice: http://careervillage.org/answer_link/334/

</body></html>
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Edie’s Answer

Here's a friendly version of your text:

So, you're interested in becoming a judge? Great! It's a journey that requires a good amount of time and dedication, but it's definitely worth it. Depending on where you are and what kind of judge you want to be, the path might look a bit different. But don't worry, I'll give you a general idea of what to expect and some activities that could help you along the way.

Let's start with the basics:

High School: This is your time to shine academically. Subjects like English, history, and government are your best friends - they'll help you build a solid base for your legal studies. Joining the debate club, mock trial, or Model United Nations is also a good idea - they'll help you think critically and speak confidently.

Undergraduate Degree: You'll need to earn a bachelor's degree. There's no specific major for law school, but studying political science, philosophy, economics, or English can help. And remember, keep that GPA high!

Law School Admission Test (LSAT): This is a big one - it's a key part of your law school application. So, prepare well and give it your best shot.

Law School: Next, you'll need to get a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from a law school that's recognized. Participating in moot court competitions and internships will give you a taste of what's to come.

Pass the Bar Examination: After law school, you'll need to pass the bar exam in the state where you plan to practice.

Legal Practice: Most judges have spent several years as attorneys. So, get some experience in a legal setting that matches the type of judge you want to be (like criminal, family, or civil law).

Judicial Positions: Judges are usually appointed or elected. You might start as a magistrate or in an administrative judicial position and work your way up. Networking with other legal professionals and getting involved in legal associations can help.

Now, let's talk about the types of judges:

Municipal or City Judges: They usually handle small civil complaints, traffic violations, and misdemeanors.
State Trial Court Judges: They deal with a wide range of civil and criminal cases.
Appellate and Supreme Court Judges (State and Federal): They handle appeals from lower courts. These positions need a lot of legal experience and a good reputation in the legal community.

And, some extra activities that could help:

Debate Club: This will help you argue effectively and speak publicly.
Mock Trial or Moot Court: This will give you a feel for courtroom procedures and legal research.
Internships: Interning with law firms, government agencies, or judges will give you a peek into the legal system.
Volunteering: Helping out in the community, especially in legal aid organizations, can be beneficial.

Becoming a judge is a big commitment. It needs dedication, great academic and professional achievements, and a deep love for the legal system. Being involved in law-related activities during high school and college can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need for a successful legal career. Good luck!
0