Supreme Court Justice
さいこうさいばんしょはんじ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Supreme Court Justices, based on the Constitution of Japan, conduct trials as the court of last resort on constitutional and legal matters at the Supreme Court and establish binding precedents.
Description
Supreme Court Justices are appointed based on nominations by the Cabinet and handle final appeals in constitutional litigation and matters of legal interpretation. Under the collegial system, they preside over oral arguments, issue constitutional judgments and conduct judicial review of laws, as well as establish precedents that contribute to uniform interpretations in lower courts. The term of office is for life, but the mandatory retirement age is 70. While maintaining independence, they bear the highest responsibility for protecting the rights of the people and upholding the rule of law.
Future Outlook
The number of positions is fixed by law with no major changes expected, but increasing digitalization of legal affairs and the growing importance of international law will demand ever-higher levels of expertise.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / High ethical standards / Impartial / Insightful / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Court employment / Full-time / Retirement system
Career Path
Lawyer → Prosecutor → Judge (lower courts) → High Court Justice → Supreme Court Justice
Required Skills
Ability to read legal documents / Evidence evaluation / Judgment writing / Legal expertise / Oral argument management
Recommended Skills
ADR / Administrative procedure knowledge / International legal knowledge / Language skills
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Because it is necessary to logically analyze and judge complex constitutional and legal issues. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because accuracy in legal documents and judgments is required. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Because it is necessary to continuously learn and apply new laws and precedents. |
| Problem Solving | Because it is necessary to resolve contradictions between laws and make appropriate judgments. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because the responsibility of making momentous judgments is great and the mental burden is heavy. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because there is little need for specialized numerical analysis. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Primarily desk work, with minimal physical demands. |
Related Qualifications
- Completed Judicial Clerkship
- Passed the Judicial Examination
Aliases
- Supreme Court Judge
Related Jobs
- District Court Justice
- Family Court Justice
- High Court Justice
- Lawyer
- Prosecutor