Overall employment is projected to grow more slowly than average, but varies by specialty. Judges and magistrates are expected encounter competition for jobs because of the prestige associated with serving on the bench.
Employment change. Overall employment of judges, magistrates, and other judicial workers is expected to grow 4 percent over the 2006-16 projection decade, slower than the average for all occupations. Budgetary pressures at all levels of government are expected to hold down the hiring of judges, despite rising caseloads, particularly in Federal courts. However, the continued need to cope with crime and settle disputes, as well as the public's willingness to go to court to settle disputes, should spur demand for judges. Also, economic growth is expected to lead to more business contracts and transactions and, thus, more legal disputes.
Demographic shifts in the population will also spur demand for judges. For instance, the number of immigrants migrating to the U.S. will continue to rise, thereby increasing the demand for judges to handle the complex issues of immigrant legal status. Demand for judges will also increase because as the American population ages, the courts are expected to reform guardianship policies and practices and develop new strategies to address elder abuse. Both the quantity and the complexity of judges' work have increased because of developments in information technology, medical science, electronic commerce, and globalization.
Employment of arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2016. Many individuals and businesses try to avoid litigation, which can involve lengthy delays, high costs, unwanted publicity, and ill will. Arbitration and other alternatives to litigation usually are faster, less expensive, and more conclusive, spurring demand for the services of arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators. Demand also will continue to increase for arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators as all jurisdictions now have some type of alternative dispute resolution program. Some jurisdictions have programs requiring disputants to meet with a mediator, in certain circumstances, such as when attempting to resolve child custody issues.
Job prospects. The prestige associated with serving on the bench will ensure continued competition for judge and magistrate positions. However, a growing number of candidates choose to forgo the bench and work in the private sector, where pay may be significantly higher. This movement may lessen the competition somewhat. Most job openings will arise as judges retire. However, additional openings will occur when new judgeships are authorized by law or when judges are elevated to higher judicial offices.
Judges, magistrates, and other judicial workers held 51,000 jobs in 2006. Judges, magistrates, and magistrate judges held 27,000 jobs, all in State and local governments. Administrative law judges, adjudicators, and hearing officers held 15,000 jobs, with 59 percent in State governments, 22 percent in the Federal Government, and 19 percent in local governments. Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators held another 8,500 jobs. Approximately 29 percent worked for State and local governments. The remainder worked for labor organizations, law offices, insurance carriers, and other private companies and for organizations that specialize in providing dispute resolution services.
Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation
Overall Experience
Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of medical school and up to an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to do their job.
Education
At a minimum, a bachelor's degree is required for these occupations. However, many also require a graduate school degree such as a Master's, Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
Job Training
Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations require that you already have the necessary skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.
Examples
Lawyers, instrumental musicians, physicists, counseling psychologists, and surgeons.
These occupations often involve coordinating, training, supervising or managing the activities of others. Very advanced communication and organization skills are required.
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Information on judges, magistrates, and other judicial workers may be obtained from:
Information on arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators may be obtained from:
- American Arbitration Association, 1633 Broadway, Floor 10, New York, NY 10019. Internet: http://www.adr.org
Information on Federal judges can be found at:
- Administrative Office of the United States Courts, One Columbus Circle, NE, Washington, DC 20544. Internet: http://www.uscourts.gov
Sources: O*Net data version 12.0
Occupational Outlook Handbook
Department of Labor
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