Judges apply the law and oversee legal processes in local, State, and Federal statutes. All Judges must ensure that all trials are conducted fairly, and that justice is administered to all parties involved in the legal manner. Judges preside over trials and hearings listening as the attorneys represent their clients, then ruling on the jury's decision on innocence or guilt. Judges have different duties and powers depending on their jurisdiction. Federal and State general court judge have jurisdiction over any case in their system, they usually rule lower courts and cases involving felony offenses. Federal and State appellate court judges have the power to overrule decisions made by administrative law judges or trial court. State court judges rule in courts where jurisdiction is limited by law, most of their cases are traffic violations, misdemeanors, and small claims. Administrative law judges are government employed and rule on Social Security, Health and Safety regulations, protection of the environment, and employment discrimination. Judges work indoors in offices, law libraries, and courtrooms. Most judges work a standard 40-hour week, but many may work over 50-hours in a week. Judges with limited jurisdiction are usually employed part time, and have other jobs. A bachelor's degree and work experience are the minimum requirements for a judge. Federal and State judges are required to be lawyers first, but Federal administrative law judges must be lawyers and pass a competitive examination before becoming a judge. The median earnings for justice of State's highest courts were from $85,550 to $116,200. Employment of judges are expected to be slower than normal throughout year 2010, because job openings arise as judges retire. .
