Qualities and abilities


JAC has identified the following five core qualities and abilities which are required for judicial office. 

These qualities and abilities may be adapted slightly for different posts - for example a High Court judge would be expected to display a high level of legal knowledge, whereas a lay tribunal member would be expected to display expertise in their professional field.

1. Intellectual capacity

  • High level of expertise in your chosen area or profession
  • Ability quickly to absorb and analyse information
  • Appropriate knowledge of the law and its underlying principles, or the ability to acquire this knowledge where necessary

2. Personal qualities

  • Integrity and independence of mind
  • Sound judgement
  • Decisiveness
  • Objectivity
  • Ability and willingness to learn and develop professionally

3. An ability to understand and deal fairly

  • Ability to treat everyone with respect and sensitivity whatever their background
  • Willingness to listen with patience and courtesy.

4. Authority and communication skills

  • Ability to explain the procedure and any decisions reached clearly and succinctly to all those involved
  • Ability to inspire respect and confidence
  • Ability to maintain authority when challenged.

5. Efficiency

  • Ability to work at speed and under pressure
  • Ability to organise time effectively and produce clear reasoned judgments expeditiously
  • Ability to work constructively with others (including leadership and managerial skills where appropriate).

The precise qualities and abilities for each post will be published in the information pack for each exercise.


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