Judicial Office

Yesterday 20 law students from the University of West London met with judges at the Royal Courts of Justice to learn about the work of courts and tribunals.

Students - either in their final year or studying for a master’s - had an opportunity to see what goes on behind the scenes of a courtroom by attending a panel session and Q&A with High Court and Tribunal judges. They also learnt first-hand about the workings of the courts and tribunals from a Judicial Assistant and Court of Appeal Judge’s Clerk.

The visit is just one of many in the Judicial Office's schools and universities engagement programme, an initiative which aims to provide students with a greater understanding of judges’ work.

To read the full article visit our website: https://www.judiciary.uk/you-dont-realise-that-being-a-judge-is-actually-in-reach-law-students-visit-royal-courts-of-justice/

Part of a higher education institution and interested in a visit from a judge? Take a look at our schools and universities engagement page to learn more: https://www.judiciary.uk/about-the-judiciary/diversity/schools-engagement/

Yesterday the Lady Chief Justice, The Right Honourable the Baroness Carr of Walton-on-the-Hill, held her annual press conference in the main library in the Royal Courts of Justice.

A range of topics were covered, including transparency, diversity, listings, international engagement, and change on the horizon. You can read the full transcript on our website: https://www.judiciary.uk/lady-chief-justices-annual-press-conference-2026/

Accessibility note - the Lady Chief Justice says:
"Change. It has been a year of change. It's going to be a year of change going forwards, and I think it's that word that I would choose to describe how I feel going forward in 2026. It's a year that does mark a moment of real transition with the retirements of the Master of the Rolls, the President of the Family Division, and the President of the King's Bench Division. We are losing giants of the judiciary. We owe them each a great and enormous debt of gratitude. Change inevitably brings reflection, but I am really confident in the depth of talent within the judiciary. In October, a new leadership team will be in place, and we are ready for the next chapter, and I am really still enjoying it all."

Magistrates volunteer at least once a month. It is flexible, supported, and works on a rota basis, so you can choose your sittings to fit around your other commitments.

Learn more about volunteering as a magistrate and register your interest https://magistrates.judiciary.uk/?utm_campaign=low_no_cost_2526&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_source=meta&utm_content=burst2_meta

Did you know you don’t need any qualifications, legal knowledge or experience to become a magistrate? Magistrates come from all walks of life. You just fairness and good judgement. We will provide you all the training and support you need.

Learn more about volunteering as a magistrate and register your interest https://magistrates.judiciary.uk/?utm_campaign=low_no_cost_2526&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_source=meta&utm_content=burst2_meta

Calling all legal professionals: Would you like to mentor a judge?

Applications are now open for the Judicial Reverse Mentoring Scheme 2026.

The Judicial Reverse Mentoring Scheme is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside members of the judiciary and share your legal knowledge and life experience.

Who we are looking for:

Practising legal professionals from groups currently underrepresented within the judiciary (with 10 years or less PQE) including:

Individuals from black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds
Women
Individuals with disabilities
Members of the LGBTQ+ community
Those from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds

How you can apply:

For full information visit the Judicial Careers Portal: https://www.judicialcareers.judiciary.uk/judicial-reverse-mentoring-scheme/

Applications close on Tuesday 24 March 2026.

For queries, contact [email protected]


The graphic reads:

Calling all legal professionals!

Would you like to mentor a judge? And have a positive impact on inclusion in the judiciary?

Are you:
• From a black, Asian or ethnic minority background
• A woman
• Someone with a disability
• A member of the LGBTQ+ community
• From a socio-economically disadvantaged background

Sign up to be a reverse mentor for the Judicial Reverse Mentoring Scheme.

In the last ever clip of our ‘Who I Am To Judge series’, Her Honour Judge Moira Macmillan discusses how she makes decisions and deals with serious crimes as a Crown Court judge.

Thanks for watching, we hope you’ve enjoyed this series!

Magistrates help keep the justice system fair, balanced and accessible. Their decisions support communities. As a magistrate, you contribute meaningfully to your society.

Learn more about volunteering as a magistrate and register your interest:
https://magistrates.judiciary.uk/?utm_campaign=low_no_cost_2526&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_source=meta&utm_content=burst2_meta

Magistrates work together to reach fair decisions, supported by legal advisers. You will be guided every step of the way. It’s a team role where you can make a meaningful impact. If you have an open mind, rational thinking, and willingness to work in a team, you can be a magistrate.

Learn more about volunteering as a magistrate and register your interest https://magistrates.judiciary.uk/?utm_campaign=low_no_cost_2526&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_source=meta&utm_content=burst2_meta