What makes a judge honorable

They are not Judges. On second reference, they are referred to as "Justice Doe". Supreme Court, Family Division"]. Family Court"]. When referring to members of the Nova Scotia Judiciary collectively and in a general way, the term "Judges" is acceptable - as in: "Canadian Judges don't use gavels. Often, after Justices and Judges retire, they continue their public service. For example, they may be appointed by the Federal or Provincial Governments to conduct a public inquiry.

As such, the retired Judge is not working as a member of the Judiciary. In the case of the public inquiry, and in first reference, the proper term is:. After that, "Mr. Doe" or "Ms. Doe" is acceptable. Some restrictions apply to the reuse, without permission, of certain content.

Links to other websites do not constitute an endorsement nor an acceptance of responsibility for those websites. Experience and Education : Prior professional activities, legal education, teaching, bar activities, and publications are very important. The type and amount of experience necessary varies depending on the judicial position sought. A candidate for the trial bench should have engaged in an active courtroom practice and should almost always have had some litigation experience.

Extensive experience in representing clients before administrative tribunals may qualify as litigation experience. However, non-litigation experience e. The assessment of specific qualities may properly be weighted where specific attributes are needed.

For example, when a particular Circuit Court might need a judge for its Family Division; a family law background or prior experience as a Master would be especially useful. Alternatively, a particular jurisdiction might need a judge to assist in the trial of an influx of mass tort, products liability or malpractice cases. Education and experience might be defined differently for appellate positions.

For this reason, extra careful attention should be paid when trial court judges apply for appointment to an appellate court. The qualities which have led to success as a trial court judge may not predict equal success at the appellate level.

Appellate judicial candidates generally should have credentials as appellate lawyers, both in brief writing and oral argument. Suitability to Workload : A candidate should demonstrate his or her compatibility with the workload of the court. Those who dislike writing opinions should not be recommended for appellate positions. Those who dislike traffic cases or domestic cases would similarly be poor choices for the district and circuit courts, respectively. Ability to Communicate : This is the ability to express oneself clearly, concisely, and grammatically, whether orally or in writing.

It includes the ability to listen. All judicial candidates must have strong oral and written skills. Candidates for appellate position require superior writing skills. A candidate for the trial bench must be able to express him or herself well both orally and in writing.

Chief Judge Robert M. Bell has emphasized the need for judges to communicate not just in the courtroom but also in the communities in which they serve and to the other branches of government. While not every judge must be a skilled and articulate public speaker, at least some should be. Civic and Professional Responsibility : This is contribution to the public and the legal profession through organized Bar and non-Bar service organizations, volunteer activities, civic and cultural organizations.

A candidate should receive favorable consideration for his or her pro bono, public service and or professional activities.