JAC research finds out why lawyers apply - or don't apply - for judicial office.

Research commissioned by the JAC from the British Market Research Bureau, shows that some myths still persist which need to be dispelled:

Date: 04 June 2009

For example:

• One third of those who responded believe that they cannot apply unless they know a High Court judge who will act as a referee.
• It is still widely believed that to become a judge one needs to be a barrister, have the right kind of education, be part of the right social network and know the top judges.
• It is believed that being under 40 or working class is a disadvantage.
• Many still do not see the appointments process as based solely on merit.  For example, women think men have an advantage and men think women are favoured.

Baroness Prashar, Chairman of the JAC said: "The findings of this research provide a sound basis for future work by the JAC, the professions, the Judiciary and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and those who support under-represented groups. It also reassures us that while our approach to date has been right it needs to be built upon further.

"We will continue to work with the Law Society, the Bar Council, the Institute of Legal Executives, the Judiciary, the MoJ and other groups to dispel these unfounded myths and to develop an even sharper and better targeted approach to encourage applicants from a much more diverse pool."