If it can be taken wrong, it will. Experience is really the only effective teacher in this case. In 1989 a trial judge position opened in the circuit where Joel had served. At that level there are two kinds of judges, associate and circuit. Qualified candidates are typically appointed by other judges, to the associate level first.
Associate judges serve for four years before reappointment.
However, associate judges may be certified by the Supreme Court to hear such cases. This means that they run for election associated with a party. If elected, they serve a six year term. Re-election in six years is based on a retain or not retain basis. In 1989 Joel's appointment was to an associate judge's position.