For solicitors, a move to the judiciary offers a chance to make decisions that affect people’s lives and to contribute to public service, as well as providing a new personal and professional challenge. For firms, judicial experience can only enhance the standard of client care offered by a practitioner, which benefits their firm as a whole.
The qualities you need
In selecting the best candidates the JAC looks for evidence of intellectual ability, the right personal qualities, an ability to be fair and even-handed, an air of authority, communications skills and an efficient manner. There are many opportunities in the judiciary for male and female solicitors of all ethnic and social backgrounds and any solicitor stands a chance of selection for the judiciary if they have the right skills for the job.
The JAC’s application process
Selection is competitive and you should apply for the post most appropriate to your skills and experience. The stages of the application process are as follows:
The application letter and references
You and your referees must give evidence of the required qualities and abilities. References don’t need to come from court - they might come from life outside work. Referees don't need to be judges, what counts is the quality of what they have to say and how well they know your work.
Shortlisting
For most exercises, candidates are shortlisted on the basis of a written test; there are examples on our website. The test requires you to analyse case studies, identify issues and apply the law, which for some exercises may be a hypothetical statute. There is no pass mark as such – the cut-off point for the shortlist will be determined by the number of posts being selected for. Previously unnsuccessful applicants may reapply - a previous rejection is not held against a candidate.
Selection day
For those who make it to the next stage, there is an interview with two or three people, including a judge. For entry level posts (eg recorder, deputy district judge) there will also be a roleplay.
What happens next?
Panel members examine all the material including references, before agreeing which candidates best meet the required qualities and abilities. Commissioners then make the final recommendations. Once these have been accepted by the Lord Chancellor, the JAC will inform candidates whether or not they have been recommended for the post. If you have been successful, the Ministry of Justice will be in touch to tell you when you start. There may be a delay before the post becomes available and your Judicial Studies Board training can begin.
Find out more on the Judicial Appointments website