Judicial Powers

The process to become a state judge varies by each state. In many, the governor appoints judges, who may then run for retention every few years. In some states, judges are elected political officers.

The trial courts on the state level are composed of courts that have general jurisdiction and those with limited jurisdiction. State courts hear cases regarding federal law if the amount in the controversy is less than $10,000. General jurisdiction, or unlimited jurisdiction, trial courts hear cases involving civil and criminal cases. Limited jurisdiction courts are defined by state statutes and their specific purposes vary from state to state. For example, depending on the state, the Justice of the Peace Courts may try misdemeanors, preside over minor civil and criminal cases, or commit offenders. Justices of the peace may have their authority limited to a city or extended to include an entire state. A justice of the peace also performs administrative duties, such as marriage ceremonies.