Baroness Carr has called upon CILEX lawyers to actively pursue judicial appointments, asserting that merit should be the key determiner of suitability for the judiciary.
During the recent launch of the CILEX Judicial Academy, Baroness Carr emphasised the point that the legal profession must expand its horizons to include a wider array of talent. She explicitly stated, ‘if you’re good enough, you’re good enough’, urging chartered legal executives to overcome ‘imposter syndrome’ and aim for judicial roles.
The CILEX Judicial Academy is a new initiative aimed at preparing legal professionals for judicial appointments. Catering to solicitors, barristers, and CILEX lawyers, the programme offers a structured path to acquire necessary judicial skills. It covers four main areas: mindset, networking, personal development, and advocacy.
Participants will benefit from personalised career coaching, mentorship from judges, and exposure to different judicial roles. The academy also provides unique networking opportunities and supports leadership advancement through pro-bono roles and governance positions.
This programme aligns with the Pre-Application Judicial Education Programme, targeting over 500 aspiring judges from diverse backgrounds. Notably, the academy prioritises candidates from underrepresented communities and those facing socioeconomic challenges.
CILEX’s demographic stands out in the legal field; 77% are women, and 16% are from ethnic minority groups. Furthermore, many members hail from non-traditional educational backgrounds, with 77% having attended state schools, and 66% being the first in their families to attend university.
Baroness Carr highlighted the limited judicial positions available to CILEX lawyers since 2008, with only 18 successful appointments since then. Recently, the law was amended to allow CILEX lawyers to apply for higher judicial positions, including recorders and Upper Tribunal judges.
Baroness Carr expressed disdain for the term ‘imposter syndrome’, suggesting instead that self-awareness should be harnessed positively for personal growth. She advocates for a clear framework of skills required for judicial roles, urging legal professionals to leverage their daily experiences and the academy’s resources to prove their capabilities.
CILEX president Yanthe Richardson recognised the challenges faced by non-traditional candidates, stressing the need for equal progression opportunities. She expressed hope that the academy would empower overlooked individuals to contribute significantly to the profession.
The CILEX Judicial Academy marks a significant step towards diversifying the judiciary by equipping non-traditional legal professionals with the skills and confidence needed to advance in their careers.
