Archon

An, Archon, is the title given to a high magistrate or ruler.
The lead magistrate on Cardassia Prime is given the title of Chief Archon, (DS9: "Tribunal"). Similiar to a Terran attorney/lawyer, an archon is apprised in Cardassian law. Many are employed by the military. Cardassian society had the most rigid and, to the Federation, incomprehensible of all legal systems. Every suspect was guilty before even appearing in court, their sentence already spelled out – almost always either death or imprisonment in a harsh labor camp.
The criminal was given a Conservator, equivalent to a public defender, except that the Conservator was not supposed to win but to prepare the criminal for a moving confession of guilt on the floor of the court. The accused was also permitted an advocate, the Nestor, to advise them during the trial.
The Chief Archon, or judge, of the court played to a televised audience, their duty not to judge the prisoner's innocence or guilt, but rather to give an emphatic display of the futility of crime on Cardassia and reinforce the public's trust in the judicial system.
The educational requirements for Archon involve at least four years of University with a focus in Cardassian law. Once graduated one must pass a bar examination.
*Known archons are James Munroe CP/James Munroe and Avarin Indus CP/Avarin Indus.
Category:Civilian Titles
Category:Legalities
Category:Non-Character Information