Judiciary of Nevada

[1] The six associate justices are divided into two panels of three, with one based in Carson City and the other in Las Vegas.

[9][10] The state is divided into eleven judicial districts, each of which comprises one to three of Nevada's sixteen counties and one independent city.

[17][18] They may also hold probable cause hearings for felony and gross misdemeanor cases.

[24] The term of elected judges is set by the city charter or ordinances.

[28][29] The Judicial Council of the State of Nevada exists to assist the Supreme Court in making policy.

[32] They are charged with researching issues and making recommendations for rules, policies, and proposed legislation.

[40] In case of a vacancy in a justice court, the county commissioners may either appoint a replacement or call a special election.

[43][44] State law allows various types of subordinate judicial officers to be appointed on a temporary or limited-scope basis, including special masters,[45] referees,[46] hearing commissioners,[47] senior judges,[48] and judges pro tem.

[54][55] Each county and city is required to ensure the right to counsel by providing an attorney for any indigent criminal defendant who is facing a possible jail sentence.

[56] In municipal courts, cities either rely on the county's public defender office or contract with private defense attorneys.

[59] District judges and justices of the peace may also appoint bailiffs or deputy marshals to ensure courtroom security.

[61][62] The constable is a township officer whose duties relate mainly to the justice court, including service of summonses and subpoenas, enforcement of evictions, and summoning of juries.