General Magistrate (13th Judicial Circuit)
About The Position
General Magistrates are quasi-judicial officers who conduct hearings on post-judgement family matters, administer oaths, take testimony and evaluate evidence as authorized by the Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure 12.490 and 12.491. Family General Magistrates prepare recommended orders and written reports that include findings of fact and conclusions of law for judicial consideration. General Magistrates perform their duties under the supervision of the administrative judge. General Magistrates perform their duties and work assignments with a substantial degree of discretion and independent judgment within the framework of state and federal laws; family law rules; and case law. The position requires knowledge of Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes and the Family Law Rules of Procedure.
Requirements
- One (1) year of substantive Family law experience.
- Juris Doctorate and member of The Florida Bar in good standing for five years.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, in a clear and concise manner.
- Ability to supervise and direct the work of administrative support staff.
- Knowledge of statutes, rules, and case law.
- Knowledge of the Florida State Court system.
- Ability to grasp, comprehend, and analyze complex legal issues and complicated factual details, and make well-reasoned findings and recommendations.
- Ability to prioritize and make efficient use of time.
- Ability to exercise discretion and to exercise good judgment in dealing with the general public.
- Ability to maintain an impartial and professional demeanor.
- Ability to exercise objectivity, discretion, and confidentiality as to all court matters.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Incumbent must be professional in all regards.
Responsibilities
- Conduct hearings in post-judgment family law cases as authorized by the Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure 12.490 and 12.491.
- Prepare recommended orders and written reports that include findings of fact, conclusions of law, and recommendations for judicial consideration.
- Submit a recommended order to the assigned judge within 60 days from the date of hearing and maintain a log of cases consistent with Administrative Order S-2025-006 on any cases held under advisement by the general magistrate.
- Research legal issues.
- Provide administrative support to the family law divisions.
- Establish and implement policies necessary to accomplish the goals of the family divisions in accordance with state and federal laws, rules of procedure, case law, and circuit administrative orders.
- Monitor changes in legislation and case law in order to identify and plan for needed changes in general magistrate operations.
- Attend or conduct staff and other professional meetings.
- Supervise an administrative assistant and ensure that administrative functions are accomplished in a timely manner.
- Perform other related duties as required.
Benefits
- Paid vacation, sick leave and holidays
- Comprehensive health and life insurance with accidental death and dismemberment benefits
- Supplemental dental, vision, life, disability and hospitalization insurance
- Tuition-free college courses
- Florida Retirement System (FRS) eligibility
- 457 Tax Deferred Retirement Plan
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
