A
Justice Court judge has jurisdiction over disputes under $10,000, but their qualifications differ significantly from those of a Superior Court judge. Unlike Superior Court judges, who are appointed by the governor and must be lawyers, Justice Court judges are typically elected politicians without a law degree.

    This disparity in qualifications is also reflected in the limited scope of their authority. For instance, a part-time Justice Court judge in Gila Bend was tasked with conducting a coroner's inquest into the death of Sarah Miles' ex-boyfriend during the filming of "The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing." The judge, who also worked as a part-time plumber, ruled that the death was an accidental overdose/suicide and cleared Burt Reynolds of any responsibility. This unusual situation led to Reynolds' comment upon returning from filming: Arizona is one place where you pay $40,000 to be found not guilty by a non-lawyer.

    Contact real estate attorney Christopher A. Combs at [email protected] for guidance on navigating disputes and the justice system.