What is the difference between a judge and a magistrate?

A judge and a magistrate are two different types of officials that preside over court cases in Hawaii. A judge is an appointed or elected official that is qualified to preside over criminal and civil cases in a court of law. Judges are typically appointed or elected for life and they typically have more authority than a magistrate. A magistrate is a court official that is appointed or elected to preside over certain types of cases. In Hawaii, a magistrate will typically hear minor criminal cases, such as petty theft or traffic violations, as well as civil cases like small claims disputes. Magistrates typically have fewer powers than judges, and their decisions may be subject to review by a judge. Perhaps the most important difference between a judge and a magistrate is that a judge is typically appointed for life, while a magistrate is only appointed for a specific period of time. In Hawaii, magistrates are typically appointed to four-year terms while judges are appointed to serve until they retire, resign, or are removed from the bench. This difference in tenure ensures that the judicial system remains independent and impartial.

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What is the difference between a judge and a magistrate?

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