selection | Ask Tim

Feb 12/2016

Silk 2025 – KC Competition

*** 14 March 2025***

– “I got it! Thank you for all your help – couldn’t have done it without you”

“Thank you so so much for your help, it was unbelievable Please come to my party?”

The 2025 competition launched today with the deadline for applications at 5pm on Friday 25 April 2025. As last year the application window runs over the Easter holidays which will add unnecessary pressure for many. As KCA advised me last year: “… we have also had feedback in the opposite direction, in that when the courts are not sitting it is easier for parents to carve out time to complete the application.” Hmm?! Factor that in and plan your time accordingly.

Anyway, it seems to be very similar to last year’s, however your 12 cases should be drawn from the last 3 years.

“Hi Tim. I’m pleased to tell you that your record of successfully getting people through continues. Many thanks for all your patience & it definitely made all the difference.”

First and foremost, do read the KC Appointment 2025 Guidance. But I would also strongly recommend that you consider the 2024 competition report and especially the panel’s approach to the competencies these will give you a real insight into who gets appointed and why.

Aug 12/2014

Blog

Has the Judicial Appointments Commission Created a Level Playing Field for Solicitors?

Depending on the actual judicial post, competition is increasing with the applications to posts ratios ranging from 8:1 to 21:1. So for some competitions you have to be in the top 5% of candidates. No recruitment process is perfect and with the talent applying for both the salaried and fee paid positions the reality is that many very good candidates won’t even make it to the selection day. With HMCTS in the process of cutting 37.8% from their budget and various policies seeking to reduce the work that reaches the courts and tribunals, it seems realistic that the number of sitting opportunities will be reduced. Add this to concerns in both professions and we can expect to see more candidates seeking fewer jobs.

So you have a choice:

Mar 24/2014

Blog

Becoming A Judge – Judicial Workshops

I will be donating 10% of the proceeds from my workshop to the CLSA/LCCSA Fund for the Judicial Review of the Ministry of Justice.

However, please also contribute: http://www.lccsa.org.uk/donate-towards-the-cost-of-judicial-review/

Where, when & why should you attend?

Leeds Wednesday 30 April 2014 – please do come and join us and you will:

– gain insights and advice about competency based recruitment;

– learn how to make your application forms standout;

– discover how you can prepare to succeed at interviews.

Jan 03/2014

Blog

JAC Application Forms – Stand Out from the Crowd

From many years of experience and working with numerous candidates you may find something useful below.

Allow sufficient time and schedule your writing of the form in bite size chunks. Typically, from scratch, a good form can take up to 16 hours of your time.

Seek advice from successful candidates from previous competitions and ask to look at their forms. Review your previous forms. Check out tips and advice on websites.