Attitudes and philosophies play a major role in how the criminal justice system operates. Given their impact, it is important to understand judicial qualifications and selection or appointment, as well as the differences between federal level and state level judgeships.

Your city is getting ready to elect a new municipal judge. The position does not require a legal background, but this new judge will have the power to incarcerate criminal defendants for petty crimes (e.g., vandalism). The position also does not require any experience with the criminal justice system. Two candidates are running. One of these candidates has a law degree, works mostly with corporations, and is very youngonly 25 years old. The other candidate is 45 years old and does not have a college degree, but has worked as a voluntary sheriff's deputy for the past 10 years.

Let's review two concepts before you make a decision about this scene.

Only one of the following statements about federal judges is true. Which statement is it?

Federal judges must be at least 25 years old and less than 70 years of age.

Federal judges must be U.S. citizens.

Federal judges must have a law degree.

Federal judges are appointed by the president and must be confirmed by the Senate.