Judges start their career as lawyers and gain experience before advancing to become judges. Judges examine evidence, ensure trials follow legal procedures, make verdicts, and decide punishments. While lawyers earn $59,000 to $163,000 annually, judges earn $103,000 to $224,000 annually depending on the level and location of the court. Becoming a judge requires obtaining a bachelor's degree, law degree, and passing the state bar exam, which takes approximately 7 years of education after high school. There is potential for career advancement as some judges may be appointed to higher state courts or potentially the U.S. Supreme Court.