Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Judge presides over court proceedings, either alone or as part of a panel. They ensure legal procedures are followed, adjudicate civil and criminal cases, and render legal decisions and judgments.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: 5 years or more
On-the-job training: Short-term
Projected Growth: 2.2% (average)
Annual job openings: 900
Direct AI exposure: 6% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 44% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Judges. According to the wage tables, average income is $387K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $310K per year | NA per year | $387K per year | NA per year | $415K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $322K above the national average. | ||||
Judges predominantly work in courtrooms within federal, state, or local courts. Their work involves legal research, writing judicial opinions, and overseeing trials and hearings. They may also engage in administrative duties related to court operations.
Judges play a critical role in the justice system, interpreting and applying the law to resolve disputes. They must be impartial, demonstrating integrity and adherence to legal principles. In addition to presiding over trials, judges conduct pretrial hearings, resolve administrative disputes, and provide legal guidance. Strong analytical and decision-making skills are essential for judges, as they evaluate legal arguments and evidence. They must also possess excellent communication skills to clearly articulate legal reasoning and rulings. Judges often work long hours, including reading legal briefs and preparing for cases outside of court sessions. This occupation demands a thorough understanding of legal procedures and principles. Judges are also responsible for maintaining courtroom decorum and ensuring fair trials. They must continuously update their legal knowledge to stay abreast of new laws and legal interpretations.
Becoming a judge usually requires a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, followed by several years of legal experience. The total post-secondary education time is typically 7 years (4 years undergraduate + 3 years law school), plus additional years for gaining legal experience.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
