judges

     There are different "kinds" of judges, who sit in different kinds of courts, and we get them in different ways. Some judges are appointed, some are elected. Judges are often lawyers with at least several years of experience, but being a law school graduate isn't usually a requirement for the job.
    You may be more familiar with the appointment of judges, as it is often covered on television. The president appoints a judge, or a justice ( a judge who sits on the Supreme Court ), and the Senate confirms the appointment. If the senate refuses to confirm the appointment, the president has to choose someone else. Appointed judges usually serve "during good behavior". They can be removed from the bench for corruption or criminal activity.  Judges are appointed to some courts because many people believe that since they will not be under the political pressure of running for office, it is unlikely that anyone could corrupt or bribe them.
     Other judges may be elected, as the judges in state courts often are. You can look for them on your ballot when you go to the polls to vote. Elected judges usually serve a term of years, and then they must run for office again.