Blog
**** 29 October 2024 ****
The 2024 competition launches on Tuesday 5 November 2024, with just 70 vacancies, 55 down on last year’s 125 vacancies but in step with the reduction of vacancies in the current Circuit Judge competition. Don’t be put off by the JAC’s painfully drawn out processes, I’ve worked with many people over the years who suffered numerous rejections yet are now recognised as some of our best judges! – BELIEVE! I’ll aim to update this blog as any new details or changes emerge and the 2024 competition progresses.
The competency framework, as in all JAC competitions, this is your plumb line.
Key Dates:
Deadline for applications 1pm on Tuesday 19 November 2024
Online qualifying tests: 11 December 2024 – Situational Judgement and Critical Reasoning
Online Scenario test: 5 February 2024 – Speed Typing Test!
Shortlisting outcome: May 2024
JAC Contacts Independent Assessors for successful candidates: 12 May 2024
Selection days will still be Remote and via MS Teams: 30 June – 11 July 2024
Outcome of selection process expected by: 2 November 2025!!
****Client Feedback*****
I have worked with scores of successful Recorder candidates and some disappointed ones of many year, I received many appreciative messages including:
” I am delighted to inform you that I have been put forward for appointment as a Recorder with immediate effect. Since enlisting your services I have been successful in 2 out of 2 JAC competitions and it is only because of your excellent preparation and guidance. I knew I had a lot to do after that first practice interview session but you gave me the tools and the confidence to do it.”
“Just to let you know I didn’t get it but I’m very grateful for all your help. I’ve requested feedback and will apply again.”
**** The Challenge****
To succeed and take your seat on the bench you will need to prepare professionally so that you can have an edge over your competition. This undated blog is written to help you understand what is required and what you need to do to be prepared, fully prepared.
There are three stages to the selection process:
- an online multiple choice test
- an online scenario test
- a selection day comprising an interview and role play”
Again for this competition (as for DDJ Mags) candidates will need to submit their evidence of the competencies before sitting the qualifying tests!
Please note I will be going on holiday on Monday 18 November the day before the deadline!
Character: read the guidelines carefully and ensure you disclose all relevant matters, failure to do so will be seen as you lacking integrity. Do check your speeding points, no more than 6 points (or one 6 point offence) currently on your driving license!
Short-Listing – Qualifying Tests – The Recorder Lottery
This has evolved so much that I have written a separate blog – where I explain what to expect and how they have evolved recently.
Application Form – Evidence of Your Competencies : give specific examples of how you demonstrate the competencies. It will take much more time than you think to complete a strong application that will differentiate you from other candidates. If you have not already started, start drafting now! Some tips to stand out from the crowd.
Selection Day
They aim to shortlist in the ratio of about 3 candidates per vacancy – so perhaps 450 candidates as they seem to have ditched the telephone assessments.
Role Play – you will be given some reading and then a panel of 3 (1 judicial and 2 lay) will observe you hearing some actors who will respond to your questions and directions. The role play starts as soon as you enter the room. The panel will be looking to assess you against the competencies and looking for evidence of how you perform and demonstrate them.
Interview – again before usually the same panel of 3, they will probe the competencies, but not necessarily all of them depending on the evidence in your application form and from your assessors . My advice for interview success.
How I work with candidates. Any questions or advice please call 0796 999 7335 or e-mail tim@asktim.org
For information about the workshops I’ve been running please see here.
Some Generous Feedback From Grateful Candidiates:
I got it!!!”
” I just wanted to say thank you so much for the assistance that you provided me with. Whilst plainly I can neither confirm, nor deny, anything, I wanted you to be aware that I could not have gone through the process at all without your assistance. It was utterly invaluable.”
“Whatever happens, working with you has been an unmitigated pleasure. Really, really grateful.”
“Many thanks for your invaluable help. It made a huge difference and I’m very grateful!”
“I did get an email and it said that they are not going to appoint me… but I remain very grateful for your help which was invaluable.”
“I have to say despite all the brilliant things I had heard about you, I had my doubts… But the difference you have made to my application over a couple of hours has been amazing.”
” @wowthankyoutim Only praise from me – great interview coaching & excellent music recommendations.”
“I’ve been recommended for appointment. I’m over the moon. Your help throughout the selection process was invaluable. Tim, I really cannot thank you enough for your help and support throughout the selection process.”
“Not this year I’m afraid but I do want to thank you for all your help and expertise. I certainly felt much better prepared than I would have been and I think the experience will stand me in good stead in future.”
“I got the job!!!!! I’m waiting to hear where I will be sitting and for the official announcement obviously. Thank you so much. I couldn’t have done it without you.”
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