1

Associate Judge Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Discusses problem accountings with Probate Judge and/or Associate Judge. Discusses with judges' issues such as appointment of Attorneys Ad Litem and case settings for Compliance or Show Cause ...

Alternate-Associate Municipal Court Judge Summary: Under general supervision, serves as City Magistrate on some weekends, holidays, and other times as needed. On an as-needed basis, interprets ...

Associate Attorney

Dallas, TX ยท On-site

$187K - $210K/yr

Associate Attorney Location: Dallas Pay - Start at $187,500 We are seeking a driven Associate ... Author high-stakes complaints, emergency motions, summary judgment briefs, and appellate filings.

Post-Judgment Attorney

Lubbock, TX ยท On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Moss Law Firm is looking for a full-time associate attorney in its Lubbock, Texas office. Moss Law ... focus on post-judgment remedies. Applicant must be open to court appearances. Additional ...

Jr. Window System Engineer

Taylor, TX ยท On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Associate Degree, or higher Required Experience: 3+ years as Windows Systems Engineer By providing your phone number, you consent to: (1) receive automated text messages and calls from the Judge ...

... Associate degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or ... Consistent with Judge's Privacy Policy, information obtained from your consent will not be shared ...

AWS certifications (e.g., Cloud Practitioner, Developer Associate ) Education & Additional Skills ... Consistent with Judge's Privacy Policy, information obtained from your consent will not be shared ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Judge information

See Texas salary details

$10

$18

$30

How much do associate judge jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate judge in Texas is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $19.28 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 are the most commonly searched types of Judge jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Judge jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Associate Judge jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Associate Judge job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Judge job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $38,502 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
OCA - Associate Judge (Child Protection Court - Midland)

OCA - Associate Judge (Child Protection Court - Midland)

CAPPS

Midland, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Description
The Office of Court Administration (OCA) is a unique state agency in the Judicial Branch that operates under the direction and supervision of the Supreme Court of Texas and the Chief Justice. Our mission is to provide resources and information for the efficient administration of the Judicial Branch of Texas.
To learn more about the OCA, visit our website.
Job Description:
The primary duties of this position are to conduct hearings and recommend orders and judgments to be made in child abuse and neglect cases under Chapter 262 and 263 of the Texas Family Code. Works under limited direction from the Presiding Judge of the 7th Administrative Judicial Region, with extensive latitude for the use of independent judgment in performing the assigned duties. Serves Andrews, Dawson, Ector, Gaines, Glasscock, Howard, Martin, and Midland counties.
Note: Pursuant to Sec. 201.101(b) of the Family Code (effective September 1, 2015), the appointment of an associate judge for this position is for a four-year term from the date the associate judge is appointed and qualifies for office. The appointment for a term does not affect the at-will employment status of the associate judge.
Please note that this job posting can be closed without notice and earlier than the closing date indicated in the posting if a suitable candidate is identified. Applicants are encouraged to submit a completed application promptly.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Performs highly responsible hearing officer and legal duties.
  • Conduct hearings in Child Protective Services cases.
  • Make findings of fact, formulate conclusions of law, and recommend orders to be rendered in cases filed under Chapters 262 and 263 of the Texas Family Code.
  • Ensure that cases are completed within the time specified in Chapters 262 (Procedures in Suit by Governmental Entity to Protect Health and Safety of Child) and 263 (Review of Placement of Children) of the Texas Family Code.
  • Supervise and evaluate the performance of the child protection court's court coordinator.
  • Prepare or supervise preparation of special and annual reports documenting the court's case dispositions and pertinent statistical analysis.
  • Adhere to Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct and the Code of Judicial Conduct in performing duties.
  • Ordinarily, travel is not required outside of the court's assigned counties, but an Associate Judge may be assigned temporarily to assist in another county.

Qualifications:
To be considered for this position, a resume must be attached and applications must be complete, including start and end dates of work experiences.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Graduation from an accredited school of law.
  • License to practice law in the State of Texas.
  • To be eligible for appointment, a person must be a citizen of the United States, have resided in this state for the two years preceding the date of appointment, and be:
    • Eligible for assignment under Section 74.054, Government Code, because the person is named on the list of retired and former judges maintained by the presiding judge of the administrative region under Section 74.055, Government Code; or
    • Licensed to practice law in this state and have been a practicing lawyer in this state, or a judge of a court in this state who is not otherwise eligible under Subdivision (1), for the four years preceding the date of appointment.
    • An associate judge appointed under this subchapter shall during the term of appointment reside in the administrative judicial region, or a county adjacent to the region, in which the court to which the associate judge is appointed, is located. An associate judge appointed to serve in two or more administrative judicial regions may reside anywhere in the regions.
    • Extensive knowledge of and practical experience in legal proceedings, trial procedures, and the laws of the State of Texas.

Employment Conditions:
    • Operates standard office equipment.
    • Performs sedentary office work.
    • Must sit for extended periods of time.
    • Requires operation of a motor vehicle to conduct business.
    • Valid Texas driver's license required to operate a motor vehicle when conducting agency business.
    • Regular attendance required.
    • May talk on phone an extended period of time.
    • Requires some lifting up to 15 pounds (this may vary) occasionally.
    • Ability to work more than 40 hours as needed and in compliance with the FLSA.

Note: The following Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) codes are generally applicable to this position. There is no Military Crosswalk relevant to this position. Applicants must fully complete the summary of military experience applicable to the position to determine if minimum qualifications are met. Additional Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at: https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_Legal.pdf
To Apply: All applications for employment with the Office of Court Administration must be submitted electronically through CAPPS Careers and can be viewed on www.WorkinTexas.com. Applications must be complete, including start and end dates of work experiences. Following a screening of applications, interviews of qualified applicants who have submitted a completed state application will be scheduled. Only applicants interviewed will be notified of their selection or non-selection.
An applicant's response to the question regarding Former Foster Youth on the state application is optional if you are applying for employment with the Office of Court Administration.
The Office of Court Administration is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age or disability in employment or in the provision of services. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, any request for reasonable accommodations needed during the application process should be communicated to Human Resources. 1-800-RELAY TX (for hearing impaired).
The Office of Court Administration participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration, and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security, with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. Section 651.005 of the Government Code requires males, ages 18 through 25, to provide proof of their Selective Service registration or of their exemption from the requirement as a condition of state employment.

CAPPS logo

About CAPPS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A statewide software solution developed by the Texas Department of Information Resources, CAPPS consolidates financial management, HR, and payroll operations for state agencies. Designed as a unified enterprise resource system, CAPPS replaced legacy tools in the early 2000s with a scalable, integrated platform tailored to agencies of varied size and complexity.

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, TX, US