A judge is a public official vested with the authority to hear and determine legal matters brought in courts of law. Judges are entrusted with upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all individuals involved in the legal process. They often preside over trials or hearings and review evidence, statutes, regulations, and legal precedent to reach an informed decision. Judges must be fair and impartial to ensure a just and equitable system of justice for all.
The judicial role is complex and varied. A judge must interpret the law, exercise discretion, credit versions of reality, and accord deference to institutional actors — all of which require temperament. The role also carries with it a significant degree of responsibility, and a high level of stress and anxiety.
In the past, great judges have displayed many different qualities. Atkin made judging accessible to the common person by emphasizing empathy and humanity, Dixon was an intellectually rigorous and principled jurist, and both emphasized the importance of a judge’s service and contribution to society. Their combined influence continues to shape the judicial role today, and they prove that great judging can take many forms. The ideal judge combines heart and mind, compassion and logic, and is dedicated to serving justice. They do not allow their power to go to their head and check their ego at the door. Instead, they serve as guardians of the law, provide fair and impartial application of the law, and uphold the dignity and integrity of the judicial system.