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Becoming a judge – free workshops for Black, Asian and ethnic minority lawyers

07 Jul 2025
1 minute read
Have you considered becoming a judge? Do you feel like you need more background and guidance on the judicial application process? We’re running free workshops aimed at Black, Asian and ethnic minority solicitors who are under-represented in the judiciary.
Young black male lawyer reading from a pile of books with post-its marking places in brightly lit office. He is wearing glasses and a checked suit with blue tie. Next to him is a set of scales.

Join a free course to:

  • feel more confident about applying
  • prepare for the process
  • hear from judges about their experiences

The 2025 course consists of two half-day workshops, taking place as a virtual, judge-led discussion group:

  • led by a former Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) lay panel member 
  • supported by sitting judges who can provide you with credible feedback

All participants are expected to attend both workshops.

The course take place in September and October:

  • Tuesday 16 September, 5.30pm to 9pm
  • Tuesday 23 September, 5.30pm to 9pm
  • Tuesday 7 October, 5.30pm to 9pm
  • Tuesday 14 October, 5.30pm to 9pm

Find out more about judicial careers

Who can apply

The workshops are designed to support Black, Asian and ethnic minority solicitors who are interested in becoming a judge.

You should:

  • have a minimum of seven years’ post-qualified experience (PQE)
  • be considering applying for a judicial appointment in the near future

Candidates who've completed, or applied for, the Pre-Application Judicial Education (PAJE) programme are strongly encouraged to apply.

Before attending the workshops, you'll need to carry out preparatory work, such as drafting your competency-based examples.

How to apply

Email your CV and covering letter to Jerry Garvey. 

You should outline: 

  • why you consider yourself suitable for judicial appointment
  • how you believe you would benefit from this course
  • whether you've applied for judicial roles previously
  • whether you've taken part in any support schemes towards judicial appointment (such as Law Society activities, JAC schemes, the judicial work shadowing scheme)

Applications close on 31 July 2025.

For more information, email Jerry Garvey.

Reviews from past attendees

“All the judges were so giving of their knowledge, as well as providing excellent feedback and invaluable tips and pointers.”

“I gained so much from tonight’s session and will definitely apply all the feedback given to sharpen the examples in my self-assessment.”

“Thank you for organising this evening’s workshop, which I found very insightful and extremely helpful.” 

“The workshop was very useful and enlightening. Really appreciate your efforts in highlighting the opportunity/challenges for us all.”

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