General Magistrate (Family & Baker Acts)

Job Location

South County Courthouse

Position Type

Full-time, salaried

Salary

$102,000 plus benefits (Sarasota County Government position)

Job

The position is responsible for setting referred cases for hearing, conducting hearings, making determinations on cases, and preparing recommended orders for the parties and referring judge’s consideration.  The position also presides over weekly Baker Act and Marchman Act hearings.  The position works under the general supervision of the Court Administrator. Travel to other courthouse locations as needed. 

 Applicants must be proficient using computers and Microsoft Word and able to generate recommended orders. Attention to detail is important.

 All applicants are encouraged to read the un-numbered section of the Code of Judicial Conduct titled “Application of the Code of Judicial Conduct” which provides that anyone who performs judicial functions, including a hearing officer, commissioner, or a general magistrate, shall comply with Canons 1, 2A, and 3, and such other provisions of the Code that might reasonably be applicable.  Applicants should also be familiar with the Opinions of the Judicial Ethics Advisory Committee.

This position requires considerable knowledge of the legal system, court processes and procedures, with an emphasis on evidentiary and discovery matters. The applicant must know civil procedure, family law rules and be able to write detailed orders and make specific findings of fact. 

 

Qualifications

Juris doctorate from an accredited law school.  Five years of experience in the practice of law, including at least one year in family law. Requires membership in good standing in the Florida Bar. Prior magistrate experience is preferred.

Benefits

The Sarasota County Government benefit package includes health, dental and vision insurance; supplemental insurance (cancer, disability, and accident); Florida Retirement System membership; and paid time off. Click here for more information: Sarasota County Employee Health and Benefits

Apply

Apply directly through Sarasota County Government Career Opportunities page. You must complete the online application to be considered for this position. Cover letters and resumes are encouraged.

The successful applicant will be subject to a Criminal Background Check. The Florida State Courts System is a criminal justice agency. We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability. If you need an accommodation in order to participate in the application/selection process, please call 941-861-7811.

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Reasons to work with the Twelfth Judicial Circuit

Benefits

As a state or county-funded court employee, you will become eligible for healthcare, retirement savings through a self-directed investment plan or a dedicated pension plan, paid time off plus 12 paid holidays each year.

Career Advancement

Court employees become eligible for tuition programs and career advancement programs to grow or enhance leadership skills.

Our Culture

Court employees can expect a safe and diverse work environment with managers that want to help you succeed.

Accommodations

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, national origin or disability. If you need an accommodation in order to participate in the application/selection process, please call (941) 861‑7811 or the Florida Relay Service, 711 or 1 (800) 955‑8771


Contact Information

Human Resources Manager


Related Links

State Employment
County Employment
Clerk of Court Employment