Minor Judiciary Education Board
The Minor Judiciary Education Board is charged with the responsibility of providing legal education to Pennsylvania’s minor judiciary, which includes Magisterial District Judges, Senior Magisterial District Judges, Arraignment Court Magistrates, and prospective judges of the above positions.
This training is mandated under Title 42 of Pennsylvania Statutes and the Rules of Judicial Administration.
The web page is designed to provide the public with current information regarding the activities of the Minor Judiciary Education Board, a schedule of upcoming certification classes, and information on obtaining registration materials for the scheduled certification training.
Mission Statement
To facilitate the ability of Pennsylvania courts in providing justice for the people of the Commonwealth, the Minor Judiciary Education Board provides quality legal education and ethical training to prospective judicial officers and certifies those individuals who meet its high standards. In addition, the Minor Judiciary Education Board assures that incumbent judicial officers of the minor judiciary maintain proficiency through mandated continuing education.
Responsibilities
Article V, §12 of the Pennsylvania Constitution requires that Magisterial District Judges be members of the bar of the Supreme Court or, before taking office, complete a course and pass an examination in the duties of their respective offices. It is the responsibility of the Minor Judiciary Education Board (MJEB) to instruct and certify individuals wishing to become Magisterial District Judges or Arraignment Court Magistrates. The board approves the curriculum, appoints and evaluates instructors, establishes course content, reviews all tests, and issues certificates to successful program participants.
In addition, the board conducts continuing education training for Magisterial District Judges, Senior Magisterial District Judges, Arraignment Court Magistrates and for those individuals who wish to maintain a current certification in one or more of these areas. It also conducts a one-week practicum, or orientation course, for newly elected or appointed Magisterial District Judges.
Board Members
Honorable Denise Snyder Thiel, Chairperson & Treasurer
Honorable Karen Eisner Zucker, Vice-Chairperson & Secretary
Honorable Richard G. King
Honorable Douglas McCall Bell
Honorable Carolyn S. Bengel
Nicholas J. Wachinski, Esq.
Dr. Kimberly Booth
Frequently Asked Questions
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When is the next certification training scheduled?
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Where is the certification training held?
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Is there a cost for the certification training?
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Am I required to stay at the Residence Inn by Marriott during the entire four weeks of the certification training?
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Do prospective magisterial district judges or arraignment court magistrates receive any notification when their certification lapses?
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If my certification lapses, will I be notified of the certification review course?
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Do prospective magisterial district judges or arraignment court magistrates with current certification status receive notification for continuing education?