How do I become a judge?
A judge is somebody who makes decisions in courts over legal disputes. They need to be fully aware of the law in the area of dispute and they must have a sufficient grasp of the facts in order to apply the law. A judge is therefore an extremely important and hugely responsible role and anybody wishing to become a judge should have a significant amount of legal experience and be able to be relied upon.
Different types of judge
There are several different types of judge that adjudicate over legal matters in England and Wales. In the past there were two very distinct types of judge: criminal judges and civil judges.
A criminal judge is somebody who will preside over all types of criminal dispute, usually in a Crown Court. The role of a judge will be slightly different in a criminal court as often it will be the jury that decide if the defendant is guilty or not guilty. The judge will therefore have the role of ensuring the right questions have been asked in the case and the jury are aware of the standard of proof needed for a guilty verdict. The judge will then have the task of sentencing the defendant should a guilty verdict be reached.
A judge in a civil court will be decide on the balance of probabilities which party ‘wins’ the case. However, the distinction between these two types of judge is less important these days with many judges practicing in both civil and criminal courts.
Structure of the court system
Anybody wishing to become a judge should be aware of the structure of the court system and thus the hierarchy of the judges. If you are to become a judge you are likely to be appointed as a circuit or district judge in the first instance. These are very high-profile and important positions as they will involve ruling over cases in different County Courts. Usually a particular judge will be designated an area and then be sent to several different courts in that area depending on the needs of each particular court. After years of practicing at this level and with increased qualifications it may be possible to be promoted to a High Court judge where you will sit in higher-valued claims in the Royal Courts of Justice in London.
Applying to be a judge
If you are applying for the position of a judge you will be expected to have practiced as a solicitor or barrister for at least five years in the chosen area of law in which you hope to practice. You will have to pass certain examinations proving your knowledge in certain legal areas and your ability to relate the law to the facts. You will then be shadowed by a current judge who will assess whether they believe you are ready for such a position of responsibility. The Judicial Appointments Commission, an independent body, will then decide if they will grant you the position of a judge.
Anybody wishing to become a judge should be aware that the old-fashioned image of a judge has long since changed. Unless you are sitting in a Crown Court, a judge is unlikely to be seen wearing a wig. Indeed, although there are still civil court robes a number of district judges will simply wear a suit.
Nowadays it is even possible to practice as a district judge on a part-time basis, something which many solicitors and barristers choose to do in conjunction with their other job.
- Source:
- FindLaw
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