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
Kimberly Booth, Secretary
Nicholas J. Wachinski, Esq.
Deborah R. Gross, Esq.
Honorable Mark S. Jacob
Honorable Danielle N. Travagline

Frequently Asked Questions

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    When is the next certification training scheduled?

    Online registration for the fall course is now closed. The spring course of instruction is tentatively planned to occur within the dates of May 28 - June 27, 2025. Online registration for the spring course will open on March 3, 2025. If you have any questions, or if you are interested in attending the current course, please contact MJEB staff by emailing MJEB@pacourts.us or calling 717-231-9515.

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    How do I register?

    Please see 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 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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    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 individuals will receive course materials on the first day of instruction at the Pennsylvania Judicial Center, located at 601 Commonwealth Avenue, 1st Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17106.