News

Ensuring that people who serve in our courts and tribunals are selected openly, fairly, and on merit is an important part of maintaining trust in our judicial system. The independent Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) leads this process for England and Wales – and at the heart of our selection panels are lay panel members – independent individuals from outside the judiciary who help assess candidates for judicial office.

Originally published by the Law Society Gazette on 18 September 2025, this blog explores the role of lay voices in the judicial appointments process with outgoing commissioners Barry Morgan and Sue Hoyle.

Taking that first step towards becoming a judge can be daunting. But as solicitors, we possess a wealth of skills that make us excellent candidates. This blog explains how best to prepare for a judicial role.

This month, the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) launches a selection exercise to recruit 36 full-time equivalent salaried Employment Judges.

Nicolina Andall, our solicitor commissioner, here discusses how becoming a judge can be for everyone, despite age, ethnicity or background.