Judges and hearing officers apply the law by overseeing the legal process in courts. They also conduct pretrial hearings, resolve administrative disputes, facilitate negotiations between opposing parties, and issue legal decisions.

All judges and hearing officers are employed by the federal government or by local and state governments. Most work in courts. The majority work full time.

Judges usually have law degrees and work experience as lawyers. However, some administrative law judge, hearing officer, and magistrate positions require only a bachelor's degree.

The median annual wage for judges and hearing officers was $109,010 in May 2015.

Employment of judges and hearing officers is projected to show little or no change from 2014 to 2024. The number of federal and state judgeships is expected to remain steady because nearly every new position for a judge must be authorized and approved by a legislature.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for judges and hearing officers.

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Learn more about judges and hearing officers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.