Why join the judiciary?

When thinking about the next stage of your career, you may be asking yourself if you have the experience and qualities needed to be a judge. Would life on the Bench suit you?

Judges speak of the satisfaction offered by a judicial post, including the opportunity to be the decision-maker, the intellectual challenge, the public service ethic, prestige, financial security and the warm collegiate environment.

The flexible and varied nature of judicial work can make a career on the Bench a practical and fulfilling option whatever your background or personal circumstances. The working arrangements for judges meet the needs of a broad range of people and their circumstances. These include part-time fee paid roles, flexible working patterns and reasonable adjustments to accommodate disabilities.

Of course the judiciary is not for everyone, and so you should think carefully before trying to make the move. A fee paid position such as a Deputy District Judge in the Magistrates Court, or a Recorder can provide a good opportunity to see if a full time post suits you, while continuing in your current job.

For anyone wanting to find out more about the role the Judicial Office runs a Work Shadowing Scheme. The scheme offers an opportunity to experience the challenges, pressures and rewards of running a court and making decisions that affect people's lives.