Unlock your judicial ambitions with the CILEX Judicial Academy

As a Lawyer, you’ve already demonstrated your commitment to excellence in the legal profession. Now, take your career to the next level by considering a future in the judiciary. The CILEX Judicial Academy is here to support you on this journey, offering a dedicated pathway to help you navigate the steps towards a successful judicial appointment.

What is the CILEX Judicial Academy and who should apply?

The CILEX Judicial Academy offers a unique opportunity for lawyers to prepare for a judicial career. Our comprehensive programme is designed to prepare you for this next chapter and supports you in gaining the experience and insight required to navigate the application process successfully.

We understand that as a Lawyer, you bring unique skills and perspectives to the table. Through this programme, we provide a structured pathway to support you in achieving your ambitions.

What does the programme cover?

The 12-month programme takes a blended approach, combining online modules, live group sessions, coaching and mentoring to help you prepare for a judicial career – while balancing your existing commitments.

Programme structure

The Academy is built around four key pillars:

• Attitude and Mindset: Build confidence, overcome barriers and develop resilience.
• Networks & Experience: Expand your professional circle and gain relevant exposure.
• Personal Development: Refine your career plan, skills and personal brand.
• Judicial Careers : Understand the roles, routes and realities of life as a judge.

Coaching

You’ll receive a minimum of three one-to-one coaching sessions covering topics such as:

• Planning your judicial path
• Building a strong portfolio
• Overcoming self-doubt and promoting yourself
• Networking and using social media effectively
• Embracing feedback and developing judicial thinking

Mentoring

You’ll enjoy three sessions with a current or former judge, offering personal insight and guidance to support your ambitions.

Group learning

Attend 12 monthly two-hour group sessions, which will cover a range of topics from, introductions to the Academy and judicial roles and understanding the JAC application process to building your judicial CV, identifying experience gaps and interview preparation and raising your professional profile.

In addition to all of this, you’ll also get access to tailored content on the CILEX myCareer platform focusing on self-awareness, leadership, personal branding and communication to further prepare you, plus an invite to the exclusive online community group within the online community.

Is the CILEX Judicial Academy right for you?

If you’re planning to apply for a judicial appointment within the next 3-5 years and are looking to build the experience and connections needed to make a strong application, the CILEX Judicial Academy is the ideal next step. We encourage applications from all Lawyers, Solicitors and Barristers, especially those who may have faced barriers in their career progression or belong to underrepresented groups.

Join the next cohort of the CILEX Judicial Academy

The CILEX Judicial Academy is available for a programme fee of £1,500, offering exceptional value for a year of expert-led development.

Join us to benefit from expert guidance from experienced judges and legal professionals, comprehensive support throughout every stage of your judicial journey, and an inclusive environment that champions diversity and underrepresented talent.

2025 cohorts:

• June 2025 until May 2026
• September 2025 until August 2026

More dates will be announced for cohorts starting in 2026.

Take the next step towards your judicial career – confidently and with the support you deserve.

How to join

To be considered, please complete the Expression of interest form. Following this, you will be asked to fill out an application form to determine eligibility for the programme.