Magistrate Screening Committee
Introduction
Magistrates, known as Justices of the Peace, are appointed
by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. The initial term is four
years while potential reappointments are for six year terms.
When an opening occurs, the Governor appoints the new Justice of the
Peace from a list of recommended candidates compiled by the Governor's
Magistrate Screening Committee. The nomination is then submitted to
the Delaware State Senate for confirmation.
Governor's Magistrate Screening Committee
The Committee was established by executive order. Of its nine
members, five may be attorneys. The Department of State, Division
of Professional Regulation provides administrative services to the
Committee.
How applicants are screened
Screenings are initiated on an "as needed" basis. Notices soliciting
applications are published in newspapers and posted in public buildings,
such as libraries and post offices, throughout the State. The only prerequisite
for filing an application is attainment of age 25 and reside in Delaware.
The first step in the screening is an examination. Applicants are
notified of the date and time when the examination will be given. The
examination consists of a battery of written tests. These tests assess
whether an applicant possesses qualities needed by a judge. Legal knowledge
is not tested.
Applicants who attain a minimum ranking determined by the Committee
progress to the next step of the screening, an interview with members
of the Committee.
At the conclusion of the interviews, the Committee compiles the list
of recommended candidates. These candidates' applications are forwarded
to the Governor's office for consideration when an opening occurs.
How to file an application
Applications are accepted only when a screening is initiated. To request notification when the next screening is initiated, individuals may call (302) 744-4500, email customer service at customerservice.dpr@state.de.us, or write:
The Governor's Magistrate Screening Committee
c/o Division of Professional Regulation
Cannon Building, Suite 203
861 Silver Lake Blvd.
Dover, DE 19904
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