U.S. Courts Reviews

Pros

Even though you might be the only one doing your type of work in the entire district, there are 90+ other districts around the country where similar work is being done - you have a huge network in which to share best practices and to vet ideas. It also feels good to help (in however small a way) provide access to a fair a speedy trial for the people of this country.

Cons

Of course, the US Courts are part of federal government, so salary progression is virtually non-existent (2011-2013 COLA freeze) while cost of living continues to increase. There are no bonuses like equivalent positions in private sector would receive on top of their salary - and unless you joined the federal government in the mid-80's, the defined benefit pension plan is neglible (the feds have also made the move to put the investment risk on the employee with their 403b defined contribution plans). But money isn't everything, right?

Pros

Very nice environment to work in, nice people. Low pressure environment. Laid back. People respect each other, even the criminals who come in each day. Everyone gets their day in court through the process.

Cons

Lots of admin and paper and layers within the government. Way too much bureaucracy. Hard to be innovative at times. Not enough use of modern technology. Reinvent.

Advice to Senior Management

Use technology more - way too much paper. Get rid of some of the middle layers and save money for the federal budget. Talk directly to people and not through people.

Pros

Good work environment and interesting work.

Cons

red tape and bureaucratic nature of organization.

Pros

Decent enough benefits, guaranteed employment, hard to lose your job if you're even reasonably competent. You are a public servant, and you're really doing something real.

Cons

There's not a lot of flexibility and honestly, a lot of the people you'll be working with simply couldn't get jobs in the private sector.

Advice to Senior Management

Become more like the real world. There's too much micromanagement without the genuine experience to back it up. Rather than continually promoting those who don't leave, try to find real outsiders who know what best practices are.

Pros

Steady work schedule
Small office setting (where I work, which is in Judge's Chambers)
Good vacation and benefits
Atmosphere is professional and respectful

Cons

I can't move up--this is it.
Salary will not increase much more than I already have.

Advice to Senior Management

Clean out the offices with the people that don't care about doing their jobs correctly or efficiently. It is a hassle.

Pros

Benfits and job security. Stable environment.

Cons

Same as any government job

Advice to Senior Management

In general, the management that I interact with is fine.