Judicial Skills and Abilities Framework

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Last updated: January 2025

The Judicial Skills and Abilities Framework was introduced in 2014 and updated in 2025.

The Framework sets out what is expected of those in judicial roles. A simplified structure now covers three areas: Legal and Judicial Skills, Communication Skills and Personal Qualities, and Effective Working. A fourth section details the skills required for judicial leadership roles.

The updated Framework will be used to support the development and recruitment of judicial office holders. The JAC will phase it in during the course of 2025. The recruitment information for each role will set out how the updated Framework will be applied for the exercise in question.