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Associate Judge Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sac and Fox Tribe of Iowa

Associate Judge

Tama, IA · On-site

Associate Judge DEPARTMENT : Sac & Fox Tribal Court CLASSIFICATION: Exempt SUMMARY : The Associate Judge is responsible for fairly and impartially hearing and deciding judicial cases and matters at ...

Meskwaki Nation

Associate Judge

Tama, IA · On-site

Associate Judge DEPARTMENT : Sac & Fox Tribal Court CLASSIFICATION: Exempt SUMMARY : The Associate Judge is responsible for fairly and impartially hearing and deciding judicial cases and matters at ...

Dougherty County, GA

Associate Judge

Albany, GA · On-site

$134K/yr

A. 15- 11- 21. • The Associate Judge shall not engage in any practice of law, in any Juvenile Court pursuant to O. C. G. A. 15- 11- 18(g). Supplemental Information Physical demands refer to the ...

Hualapai Tribe

Associate Judge

Peach Springs, AZ

Associate Judge JUDICIAL BRANCH OF GOVERNMENT: Tribal Court EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Full-Time CLASS: Non-Covered; Exempt - Council Appointed POSITION SUMMARY: The Associate Judge will preside over cases as ...

Sac and Fox Tribe of Iowa

Associate Judge

Tama, IA · Remote

Associate Judge DEPARTMENT : Sac & Fox Tribal Court CLASSIFICATION: Exempt SUMMARY : The Associate Judge is responsible for fairly and impartially hearing and deciding judicial cases and matters at ...

Dougherty County

Associate Judge

Albany, GA · On-site

$134K/yr

Description The Dougherty County Juvenile Court is hiring for an Associate Judge. Works with local school systems, district attorney's offices, public defender's offices, mental health providers and ...

Hualapai Tribe

Associate Judge

Peach Springs, AZ · On-site

Associate Judge JUDICIAL BRANCH OF GOVERNMENT: Tribal Court EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Full-Time CLASS: Non-Covered; Exempt - Council Appointed POSITION SUMMARY: The Associate Judge will preside over cases as ...

Dorchester County, SC

ASSOCIATE JUDGE

Saint George, SC · On-site

$119K/yr

Duties ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS • In the absence of the Probate Judge, the Associate Probate Judge, makes command decisions related to the office, staff operations, case processing procedures, and ...

Dorchester County

ASSOCIATE JUDGE

Saint George, SC

$119K/yr

Duties ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS In the absence of the Probate Judge, the Associate Probate Judge, makes command decisions related to the office, staff operations, case processing procedures, and case ...

Hualapai Tribe

Chief Judge

Peach Springs, AZ · On-site

$118K - $178K/yr

Supervising the Associate Judge(s), Court Administrator, and court staff, providing guidance on legal policies and procedures * Issuing legal documents such as warrants, subpoenas, court orders, and ...

Hualapai Tribe

Chief Judge

Peach Springs, AZ · On-site

Supervising the Associate Judge(s), Court Administrator, and court staff, providing guidance on legal policies and procedures * Issuing legal documents such as warrants, subpoenas, court orders, and ...

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How much do associate judge jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate judge in the United States is $19.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Associate Judges?

Associate Judges are judicial officers who assist in handling cases within a court system, often at the state or local level. Unlike full judges, they may be appointed rather than elected and typically have authority over certain types of cases, such as family law, probate, or preliminary matters in criminal cases. Their duties can include presiding over hearings, making legal determinations, and issuing rulings. The specific powers and appointment process for Associate Judges vary depending on the jurisdiction. They play a crucial role in managing court caseloads and ensuring efficient administration of justice.

How much do associate judges make?

Associate judges' salaries vary by jurisdiction, but they typically earn between $100,000 and $180,000 annually. Factors influencing pay include experience, location, and the level of court they serve in, with some jurisdictions offering additional benefits or stipends for workload and responsibilities.

What is the difference between Associate Judge vs Magistrate?

AspectAssociate JudgeMagistrate
Required CredentialsLegal degree, bar admission, judicial trainingLegal degree, bar admission, judicial or magistrate training
Work EnvironmentCourtrooms, judicial chambersCourtrooms, sometimes administrative offices
Employer & IndustryState or federal courts, governmentLocal, state, or federal courts, government
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Associate Judges and Magistrates both serve in judicial roles within the court system, often requiring similar legal credentials and working in courtrooms. While Associate Judges typically handle more complex cases and may have a higher level of authority, Magistrates often manage preliminary hearings and minor cases. Both roles are essential in the judicial process and are employed by government courts at various levels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Judge, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Judge, you need a law degree, bar admission, and extensive legal knowledge, along with experience practicing law. Familiarity with case management systems, legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and courtroom technology is typically required. Strong analytical reasoning, impartiality, effective communication, and sound judgment are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure fair, efficient adjudication and uphold the integrity of the judicial system.

What is the role of the associate justice?

An associate justice is a member of a judicial panel or court who participates in hearing cases, interpreting laws, and making decisions alongside other justices. They review legal arguments, analyze evidence, and contribute to the written opinions that establish legal precedents.

What are some common challenges Associate Judges face when managing their caseloads?

Associate Judges often handle a high volume of cases, which requires strong organizational skills and the ability to make timely, well-reasoned decisions. Balancing the need for efficiency with fairness and thoroughness can be challenging, especially when dealing with complex legal issues or emotionally charged cases. Additionally, Associate Judges must adapt to evolving laws and courtroom technologies while maintaining professionalism and impartiality in every proceeding.

What is the lowest level of judge?

The lowest level of judge is typically a magistrate or justice of the peace, who handle minor cases, preliminary hearings, and administrative functions. These judges often require less experience and may not need a law degree, depending on the jurisdiction.

What does it mean to be an associate judge?

An associate judge is a judicial officer who assists a presiding judge in hearing cases, making rulings, and managing court proceedings. They typically handle cases independently within the scope of their authority and may require legal experience or certification depending on the jurisdiction.
What cities are hiring for Associate Judge jobs? Cities with the most Associate Judge job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Judge jobs? The most popular types of Judge jobs are:
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Associate Judge jobs near you

Associate Judge

Sac and Fox Tribe of Iowa

Tama, IA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE: Associate Judge
DEPARTMENT: Sac & Fox Tribal Court
CLASSIFICATION:Exempt
SUMMARY: The Associate Judge is responsible for fairly and impartially hearing and deciding judicial cases and matters at the Trial Court level within the jurisdiction of the Sac and Fox Tribal Court pursuant to the Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa tribal laws, codes, rules and regulations.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Faithfully and impartially discharge the duties of the office;
  • Support the Constitution, By-laws and laws of the Tribe;
  • Provide and maintain patient, dignified and courteous demeanor to those appearing before him/her or those the Judge deals with in the capacity as a Judge and shall require similar conduct of court officials subject to the Judge's direction and control;
  • Accord every person in a proceeding the right to be heard in accordance with the law;
  • Observe and maintain high standards of conduct so that the integrity of the Tribal Court will be preserved and regulate extra-judicial activities to minimize the risk of conflict with judicial duties;
  • Preside as Associate Judge over all cases filed in the Tribal Court, including but not limited to: Criminal, Civil (e.g. domestic relations, repossession, breach of contract, damages, and small claims), and Children's Court cases (delinquency, neglect and dependency), and such other cases as assigned;
  • Issue search and seizure warrants, arrest warrants, orders of protection, final orders, judgments, decisions, and all other lawful orders of the Court promptly, efficiently, and fairly;
  • Administer oaths and affirmations;
  • Assist in development of court rules of procedure and court policies and court forms as directed and/or authorized by the Chief Judge;
  • Develop judicial institutions and judicial tools which reflect the Tribe's culture, traditions, and values;
  • Attend training, staff meetings, and other meetings with tribal government and other entities as directed and/or authorized by the Chief Judge;
  • Assist as appropriate in preparing short and long range strategic plans to assure the Court's contribution to the Tribe's overall plan and strategies, including organizational plans; and
  • Perform all other duties as assigned by the Chief Judge, as required by Title 5 of the Code of the Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa ("Dispute Resolution Code").

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Demonstrate oral, written, and analytical skills commensurate with the position of Associate Judge;
  • Ability to complete written legal opinions demonstrating proper legal analysis and efficient legal writing skills, including proper legal citation;
  • Knowledge of general legal principles in all areas listed in Duties and Responsibilities;
  • Knowledge of federal Indian law;
  • Knowledge or willingness to learn the Tribal Code of the Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa, including custom and tradition;
  • Knowledge of common court and trial procedures, including jury trial procedures;
  • Knowledge of courtroom management skills and case management skills;
  • Must be willing to attend judicial skills training;
  • Must be able to work in a properly collegial relationship with co-workers and be able to interact with other departments within the Tribe in the spirit of cooperation and compromise;
  • Must be able to take on additional responsibilities in the spirit of cooperation and teamwork;
  • Must be able to maintain an atmosphere of trust, fairness and respect and be mutually supportive with co-workers;
  • Must understand, appreciate, and promote the ideas of tribal self-determination and tribal sovereignty;
  • Must understand, appreciate, and promote tribal governments and Native American people;
  • Perform quality and efficient legal research on matters before the Court.

QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an applicant, in addition to any other qualifications the Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa Tribal Council may set, must meet the following minimum qualifications:
  • Juris Doctor degree from an accredited American Bar Association law school;
  • Must be a member in good standing with any state bar and admitted or eligible for admission to practice law in Iowa and admitted or eligible for admission to practice in the Meskwaki Tribal Court;
  • Must have no less than one year of experience as a judge of a court of an Indian tribe, whether as a trial judge, family court judge, or a appellate judge; or have at least five years experience as an attorney, lay advocate, or judge coupled with a demonstrable knowledge of laws related to Indian tribes;
  • Must be at least 25 years of age;
  • Must be a person of honor and of good character;
  • Must be law abiding;
  • A Judge shall not:
  • Have pled guilty, nolo contendere, no contest, or been convicted of any felony or other crime of moral turpitude;
  • Have pled guilty, nolo contendere, no contest, or been convicted of any misdemeanor, except minor traffic violations, within one year immediately preceding the appointment;
  • Had the right to practice law before any court or other tribunal revoked or otherwise been disciplined by any court or other tribunal before which he/she has appeared; or
  • Also be the Clerk of Court or assistant thereto, a member of the staff of the Tribal Court, or a member of the Tribal Council during his/her term as Judge.

SUPERVISION
  • The Associate Judge shall be supervised by the Chief Judge of the Trial Court.

POSITION STATUS
  • Regular Full-Time (This position is appointed by the Tribal Council for a 4 year term)

SALARY
  • DOQ

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