Legal · Arbitrate, advise, adjudicate, or administer justice in a court of law
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$57–70k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$118–139k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
+2.5% · As fast as average
Projected growth of 2.5% from 2024 to 2034; about 1 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
6+ years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Entry-Level Magistrates
Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates
Experienced Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates
Senior Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates
Director of Legal
You prioritize Independence
This career is strongly aligned with Independence — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Active Listening
Active Listening is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires a graduate or professional degree, which matches common student preparation goals.
Browse schools offering programs in this field
210 schools offer programs in this career field.
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