A judge is an authoritative figure who presides over legal disputes and is responsible for ensuring justice is served. They are often appointed or elected based on their law expertise and experience. Their duties include hearing cases, listening to arguments, and making decisions or judgments based on the facts and evidence presented in each case. In addition to this, judges also interpret and apply the law. They frequently write opinions that explain their legal reasoning and establish legal precedents in the process.

The powers, functions, method of appointment, discipline, and training of judges vary widely across different jurisdictions. Judges can be found in all levels of the judicial system, including trial courts, appellate courts, and supreme courts. In many jurisdictions, judges may share some of their power with a jury, while in others they have sole judging authority.

Despite the wide variety of jurisdictions, there are a few important similarities among judges worldwide. For example, all judges have significant governmental power and are obligated to be impartial and unbiased in their decision making. Judges also rely on legal precedent and the rules of procedure established by higher courts in their interpretation and application of the law.