3-9-101. Workers' compensation judge -- appointment -- term -- qualifications -- salary. (1) There is a workers' compensation court. The workers' compensation court is presided over by a workers' compensation judge.

(2) The governor shall appoint the workers' compensation judge for a term of 6 years in the same manner provided by Title 3, chapter 1, part 9, for the appointment of supreme court justices or district court judges. A vacancy must be filled in the same manner as the original appointment.

(3) To be eligible for workers' compensation judge, a person must:

(a) have the qualifications necessary for district court judges found in Article VII, section 9, of the Montana constitution;

(b) devote full time to the duties of workers' compensation judge and not engage in the private practice of law.

(4) The workers' compensation judge is entitled to the same salary and expense allowances as provided in 3-5-211.