Description
Preside over trials and hearings, interpret and apply the law, and render judgments in criminal and civil cases. Instruct juries, rule on evidence and procedure, sentence convicted defendants, and issue orders and warrants. May perform marriages and manage courtroom operations.
- • Preside over trials, hearings, and conferences in criminal and civil matters.
- • Instruct juries on applicable law, oversee deliberations, and receive verdicts.
- • Rule on the admissibility of evidence and objections during testimony.
- • Decide pretrial motions and other procedural matters.
- • Sentence defendants upon conviction in accordance with statutes and guidelines.
- • Determine liability and award damages or other remedies in bench trials.
- • Conduct preliminary, arraignment, and bail hearings when authorized.
- • Review pleadings, motions, and briefs to identify issues of fact and law.
- • Interpret and enforce rules of civil and criminal procedure and local court rules.
- • Monitor proceedings to ensure due process, decorum, and compliance with court orders.
- • Guide attorneys, jurors, litigants, and court staff on courtroom procedures and conduct.
- • Research legal issues and draft opinions, findings, and orders.
- • Issue arrest and search warrants and other judicial writs as authorized.
- • Impose temporary orders and injunctions in civil matters pending trial.
- • Rule on custody, support, and access disputes and enforce related orders.
- • Grant divorces and equitably divide marital assets where jurisdiction applies.
- • Facilitate settlement discussions and resolve disputes between counsel.
- • Supervise courtroom personnel and oversee docket and caseflow management.
- • Serve on judicial panels or committees to resolve matters and improve court operations.
- • Perform wedding ceremonies when permitted by law.
- • Engage in public outreach to explain the judiciary, consistent with ethical rules.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
