The 16th Judicial Circuit has 19 circuit judges, who have jurisdiction over all civil and criminal cases and matters, including cases that are tried by juries. In Jackson County, they are appointed by the state governor under the Nonpartisan Court Plan to six-year terms. Circuit judges must be at least 30 years old, licensed to practice law in Missouri, a United States citizen for at least 10 years, a Missouri voter for at least three years, and a resident of the 16th Judicial Circuit for at least one year.