How do municipal court judges and commissioners obtain their positions?

Municipal court judges and commissioners typically obtain their positions through public elections. This process is designed to ensure that these officials are accountable to the community they serve, allowing voters to choose individuals who align with their values and priorities regarding the local judicial system. The practice of electing municipal judges reinforces the concept of a democratic legal system, where judicial authority is derived from the consent of the governed.

This system contrasts with appointments made by governors or committees, which are more common for higher court judges but not for municipal courts. Additionally, while some requirements, such as having legal expertise or being an attorney, may apply to candidates, the fundamental means of acquiring the position is through elections rather than appointments or selections by committees.