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 Thomas G. Miller, Jr., Chairperson
Honorable Bonnie L. Carney, Vice Chairperson
Honorable Mark S. Jacob
Honorable Danielle N. Travagline
John A. Byrd, Esq.
Honorable Gary A. Whiteman
Frequently Asked Questions
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When is the next certification training scheduled?
Registration for spring certification course for prospective Magisterial District Judges (MDJ) and Philadelphia Arraignment Court Magistrates (ACM) will open on this site in March 2026. The course will begin with a lunchtime virtual orientation webinar session in May (date TBD) followed by four weeks of in-person classes during the month of June 2026 at the Pennsylvania Judicial Center (PJC), 601 Commonwealth Avenue, Harrisburg, PA, 17120. The online registration for the fall certification is closed. Individuals (elected/appointed) who are required to complete the fall certification course in order to assume office in January 2026 should contact MJEB staff immediately at MJEB@pacourts.us or 717-231-9515. Please visit the Certification Training page for information.
If you have questions, please contact MJEB staff by emailing MJEB@pacourts.us or calling 717-231-9515.
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How do I register?
Please visit the Certification Training page for information.
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Where is the certification training held?
The training is held in-person at the Pennsylvania Judicial Center, 601 Commonwealth Ave., Harrisburg, Pa. 17106. This training is not offered online or anywhere else in Pennsylvania.
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Is there a cost for the certification training?
Course instruction and materials will be provided to students at no cost; however, students are responsible for their own personal expenses (i.e., parking, meals, transportation, lodging, etc.).
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Where do I find the ADA policy and forms?
If you require an accommodation under the ADA, it is recommended that you make your request as soon as possible or at least four (4) weeks prior to the start of the course or exam. Follow this link for the policy and forms: ADA Policy & Forms.
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Do prospective magisterial district judges or arraignment court magistrates receive any notification when their certification lapses?
No, individuals are responsible for ensuring their certification status is current and if interested in maintaining their certification must contact the Minor Judiciary Education Board by calling 717-231-9515 or via email MJEB@pacourts.us.
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If my certification lapses, will I be notified of the certification review course?
No, individuals are responsible to check for upcoming certification review classes by contacting the Minor Judiciary Education Board by calling 717-231-9515 or via email MJEB@pacourts.us.
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Where do I pick up the course material?
Registered students will receive course materials when they attend class at the Pennsylvania Judicial Center, located at 601 Commonwealth Avenue, 1st Floor, Harrisburg, PA. More information will be provided to registered students.