Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates
Judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates hear and decide legal cases in courts of law. They interpret laws, evaluate evidence, and render decisions in both criminal and civil matters. Some also perform administrative duties like officiating marriages. This work takes place in courtrooms, judicial chambers, and court administrative offices.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves reviewing case files, hearing arguments from lawyers and plaintiffs, examining evidence and witness testimony, and writing decisions or orders. Judges may preside over criminal sentencing hearings, civil disputes, small claims cases, or traffic violations depending on court level. Administrative tasks include managing court schedules, consulting with legal staff, and ensuring cases proceed according to procedural rules.
Who this work suits
Holland code ECS. Enterprising work is leading, persuading and making decisions. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd likely succeed in this role if you enjoy analyzing complex information and making authoritative decisions based on rules and precedent. People drawn to this work tend to value order, logic, and systematic problem-solving while also seeking positions of influence and responsibility.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $214,990 | $239,760 | $254,950 | 120 |
| Massachusetts | $186,170 | $221,710 | $221,710 | 610 |
| Connecticut | $217,760 | $217,760 | $217,760 | 230 |
| New York | $174,250 | $216,390 | $232,590 | 2,270 |
| Hawaii | $205,300 | $211,810 | $217,110 | 120 |
| Tennessee | $121,120 | $208,350 | $218,190 | 420 |
| Nebraska | $202,550 | $208,180 | $208,180 | 160 |
| New Mexico | $126,960 | $205,400 | $216,220 | 250 |
| New Jersey | $103,260 | $204,160 | $204,160 | 920 |
| Colorado | $170,080 | $198,790 | $198,790 | 620 |
| Vermont | $146,410 | $194,170 | $194,170 | 80 |
| Minnesota | $171,080 | $190,110 | $190,110 | 590 |
All 41 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 23-1023.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.