In most cases, a judicial officer preside over legal proceedings, usually in a court of law. The job description for a judicial officer varies depending on the officer’s specific career path and the location of the position. The most important skills a judicial officer can learn are decision-making, mediation, and familiarity with the letter of the law. Judge, magistrate, and notary public are some of the more common judicial officer positions.
In the courtroom, a judge assumes a leadership role. A judge will ensure that all proper legal protocol is followed as evidence is presented and witnesses are called in trial jury cases. In other cases, a judge will hear evidence and has the authority to make a decision on the case’s outcome based on his or her interpretation of the law.
In both criminal and civil cases, judges are present. Appellate judges examine appealed cases and determine whether the outcome is just and impartial. Justices of higher regional appellate courts can also challenge the legality of a decision and provide legal support for existing laws.
The magistrate is another well-known judicial officer. The magistrate’s role varies by country. Pretrial issues, misdemeanor criminal cases, and small-claims civil cases are all handled by this professional. In most felony criminal cases and major civil cases, magistrates do not rule. Magistrates may also serve as registrars, administer licenses, act as a public information source, conduct civil unions, sentence offenders, grant search warrants, or review legal cases, depending on their global location.
Notaries are responsible for the oversight of legal documents. Notaries may assist in the drafting of a document and will also serve as a witness to its legal completion. A notary can handle affidavits, oaths, business contracts, witness statements, deeds, and wills or other estate documents. As a result, the notary can work in both private and broader judicial matters.
Bail justices and justices of the peace are two other types of judicial officers. Bail justices are in charge of bail issues. The latter’s role is more localized, and depending on the location, it may overlap with that of a magistrate or a notary. Duties can include everything from deciding traffic violations to performing civil marriages.
Officers of the judiciary can be appointed or elected. The method of obtaining an office is usually determined by the type of job desired. A judicial officer must take an ethical oath and be in good standing with the law that he or she is sworn to serve and uphold in every case.