Section 124. Eligibility for appointment

No person, other than one who
  holds such office at the effective date of  this  act,  may  assume  the
  office  of  judge of the family court within the city of New York unless
  he has been admitted to practice law in this state at  least  ten  years
  prior  to the date of such appointment. In making such appointments, the
  mayor of the city of New York shall select persons  who  are  especially
  qualified   for   the   court's  work  by  reason  of  their  character,
  personality, tact, patience and common sense.