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As a judge, your main job is to preside over cases brought before the court and review legislation, arguments and evidence presented by the defence and the prosecution. You will provide support to juries and help them to understand their duties and responsibilities.

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FAQs

FAQs

What does a Judge do?

The role of a judge is hugely varied, depending on your background and the nature of the cases they are presiding over. A few typical responsibilities might include:

Researching laws and case histories relevant to the cases that you are dealing with
Research legislative changes
Read and evaluate evidence and records specific to each case
Enforce relevant rules of the court
Listen to arguments from attorneys and witness testimony
Instruct the jury on relevant law and the ways that they can consider the evidence
Dependent on if the individual is charged as guilty, then you will be required to issue a verdict and sentence
Determine whether the plaintiff or defendant presented a stronger case
Rule how much in damages to award the winning party
Perform out of the courtroom duties. E.g. revoke parole, work on parole boards and work on work-release requests
Handle wills and inheritances
Issue search warrants, arrest warrants and restraining orders
Set bail for people charged with crimes
Supervise other courtroom staff and judges

Skills & interests required for a Judge

Judges need to have had significant experience as a practising lawyer before being considered for a position. This will entail developing a deep understanding of the law (this can be particularly focused on certain areas, e.g. criminal or family law).

Generic skills that will assist a lawyer in becoming a judge include:

Knowledge of court
Good listener
Great communication and interpersonal skills
The ability to digest large amounts of information at one time
Make unbiased opinions

What hours does a Judge typically do?

Judges work according to an annual calendar that begins in October and is comprised of four terms of varying periods; judges are required to complete a minimum number of hours each term. There are no set working hours for this role.

What environment is a Judge based in?

You are likely to be based in the court or court rooms of some variety.

How much does a Judge travel?

You may be required to travel to different courts around the country, as well as visiting government buildings and the Houses of Parliament.

How much does a Judge get paid?

The role of a judge can only be achieved by being a solicitor or barrister with a minimum of seven years of full-time, post-qualification experience. Therefore, the starting salary for a district judge is around £100,000 per annum. High court judges receive around £170,000 or more depending on experience.

Perks & benefits

Judges are highly respected professionals, and the most experienced judges in the High Courts or even the Supreme Court will be considering matters of national significance, and they might become household names!

What qualifications does a Judge need?

The role of a judge can only be achieved by being a solicitor or barrister with a minimum of seven years of full-time, post-qualification experience. This will have required you to have completed the LPC (if a solicitor) or the BPTC (if a barrister).