Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a judge? Or what kind of person sits on the Missouri Supreme Court? Meet Judge Steven Ohmer. He currently serves in the state’s highest court, but he’s more than just a name on the docket.
As a judge, Steven Ohmer is part of a select group of people chosen to interpret the law, interpret the Constitution, and make decisions that can affect people’s lives in significant ways. But with great power comes great responsibility. Judges like Steven Ohmer are expected to be impartial, fair, and objective, regardless of personal beliefs or outside pressures.
So who is Judge Steven Ohmer? How did he become a judge, and what kind of work does he do on the Missouri Supreme Court? In this post, we’re going to delve into these topics and more.
First off, let’s answer a commonly asked question: Are they called judges or some other title? Indeed, these officials are referred to as judges, but different states may have variations in judicial titles and roles.
Moving on to Missouri’s Supreme Court, you might also wonder how long their terms last. These terms last for 12 years, after which the judges are up for a retention election.
Lastly, who is the chief justice of the Supreme Court in Missouri? As of 2021, that would be Judge Paul C. Wilson. Each judge will hold the position of Chief Justice at some point throughout their 12 year term.
With that being said, let’s dive deeper into the life and work of Judge Steven Ohmer.
Are Judges Called by Another Title?
One might assume that judges are always referred to as judges, but that is not always the case. Depending on their jurisdiction, judges may be referred to by different titles. Here are a few examples:
Magistrate
A magistrate is a judicial officer who presides over minor criminal or civil cases. In some jurisdictions, magistrates may be referred to as judges or justices of the peace, but they typically have less authority than a judge.
Justice
In some countries, such as Canada and Australia, judges are referred to as justices. This title is also used in the United States for judges who sit on appellate courts, such as the Supreme Court.
Chancellor
In some jurisdictions, such as England and Wales, the head of the judiciary is called the Lord Chancellor. In this case, judges may be referred to as chancellors.
Referee
In some states, such as California, judges who preside over small claims court are referred to as referees. They have the same authority as a judge, but their title reflects the fact that they are responsible for settling minor disputes.
Takeaway
Judges may be called by different titles depending on their jurisdiction or the type of court in which they preside. However, no matter what they are called, these judicial officers play a critical role in protecting the rights of citizens and ensuring that justice is served.
How Long is a Missouri Supreme Court Judge’s Term?
In Missouri, the term of a Supreme Court Judge is one of the most debated issues among legal experts and politicians. Understanding the length of a Judge’s term is crucial, as it determines how long they can hold office and how frequently new Judges can be appointed. In this section, we will explore the duration of a Missouri Supreme Court Judge’s term.
Missouri Supreme Court Judge Term Length
- Each Missouri Supreme Court Judge’s term lasts for 12 years.
- The term is non-renewable, meaning that a Judge cannot serve more than one term.
- Judges are typically appointed by the Governor, subject to confirmation by the State Senate.
- Missouri is one of five states to use the Nonpartisan Court Plan, also known as the Missouri Plan, which allows Judges to be appointed rather than elected.
Why the Length of a Judge’s Term Matters
The length of a Judge’s term is a crucial issue because it affects the stability and predictability of the legal system. Longer terms can provide a sense of stability and continuity, which is essential for judicial independence. However, shorter terms can encourage accountability and limit the power of individual Judges.
Key Takeaways
- A Missouri Supreme Court Judge’s term lasts for 12 years and is non-renewable.
- Judges are appointed rather than elected through the Nonpartisan Court Plan.
- The length of a Judge’s term affects the stability and predictability of the legal system.
In summary, the length of a Missouri Supreme Court Judge’s term is a vital component of the state’s legal system. By understanding the duration of a Judge’s term and its implications, we can better appreciate the role of the judiciary in Missouri.
Who is the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in Missouri?
If you’re interested in the legal system or have a case in Missouri, you might be wondering who the current Chief Justice of Missouri’s Supreme Court is. Well, I’ve got the scoop for you!
The Current Chief Justice of Missouri’s Supreme Court
The current Chief Justice of Missouri’s Supreme Court is George W. Draper III. He assumed this position on July 1, 2021, succeeding Judge Zel M. Fischer.
More About Chief Justice George W. Draper III
Here are some quick facts to help you get to know Missouri’s Chief Justice:
- He was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and graduated from Howard University and Howard University School of Law.
- Before being appointed to the Supreme Court, Chief Justice Draper served for 22 years as a trial judge on the St. Louis Circuit Court.
- He has served in numerous leadership positions, including as the chair of the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission.
- Chief Justice Draper has been recognized for his work in the legal field, receiving the Missouri Bar Foundation’s “Spurgeon Smithson Award” in 2003 and the “Honorary Order of the Barrister” award in 2010.
What Does the Chief Justice of Missouri’s Supreme Court Do?
As the Chief Justice of Missouri’s Supreme Court, George W. Draper III has several important responsibilities, including:
- Presiding over the court’s conferences and meetings.
- Assigning cases to the seven justices on the Supreme Court.
- Coordinating judicial activities across the state.
- Serving as the public face of the court and the legal system in Missouri.
Overall, the Chief Justice of Missouri’s Supreme Court plays a crucial role in upholding the state’s legal system and ensuring justice for all.