Judges and magistrates
|
|
Judges, magistrates and other judicial workers apply the law and oversee the legal process in courts according to local, state and federal statutes. They preside over cases concerning every aspect of society, from traffic offenses to the rights of huge corporations. All judicial workers must ensure that trials and hearings are conducted fairly. The most visible responsibility of judges is presiding over trials or hearings and listening as attorneys represent the parties present. They rule on the admissibility of evidence and the methods of conducting testimony, and they may be called upon to settle disputes between opposing attorneys. Judges ensure that rules and procedures are followed, and if unusual circumstances arise for which standard procedures have not been established, they determine how the trial will proceed based on their interpretation of the law. When there is not a jury trial, judges decide the cases. Outside the courtroom, in their private offices, judges read documents on pleadings and motions, research legal issues, write opinions and oversee the court’s operations. In some jurisdictions, judges also manage the courts’ administrative and clerical staff. Administrative law judges, sometimes called hearing officers or adjudicators, are employed by government agencies to make determinations for administrative agencies. They make decisions on a person’s eligibility for various Social Security benefits or worker’s compensation, protection of the environment, enforcement of health and safety regulations, employment discrimination and compliance with economic regulatory requirements. More : usatoday.com |