Pre-application seminar about applying to sit as a s9(4) Deputy High Court Judge
Chancery DivisionFamily DivisionHigh CourtKing's Bench DivisionNews
The Diversity and Inclusion representatives in the High Court are pleased to invite you to a cross jurisdictional seminar on Wednesday 11 February 2026 about making an application to sit as a s9(4) Deputy High Court Judge. Further details are set out below.
It is aimed at both those thinking of applying in this year’s forthcoming competition for up to 45 candidates as well as those planning further ahead.
S.9(4) appointments are open to all solicitors and barristers qualified in England and Wales with at least seven years PQE who demonstrate exceptional ability. No previous judicial experience is necessary.
Please circulate the details within your organisation and to your members and affiliates.
We hope you will find this seminar helpful and look forward to meeting you if you are able to attend.
Best wishes
Mrs Justice Stacey
Mrs Justice Theis
Mr Justice Rajah
Master Stevens
Chief Master Shuman
Seminar details
The forthcoming seminar and drinks reception is for those interested in fee paid S9(4) Deputy High Court Judge roles in the King’s Bench, Family, and Chancery Divisions. The event aims to encourage applications from candidates in underrepresented groups.
Date: Wednesday 11 February 2026
Arrival: 4.45pm
Seminar: 5pm to 6pm
Reception: 6pm to 7pm
Venue: Royal Courts of Justice, Strand, London WC2A 2LL
The panel will include:
- Dame Victoria Sharp DBE, President of the King’s Bench Division
- Mrs Justice Stacey
- Mrs Justice Theis
- Mr Justice Rajah
- Mr Justice Adam Johnson
- There will also be presentations from current S9(4) judges and representatives from the Judicial Appointments Commission.
You may attend either in person or remotely. In person places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. There is no limit on remote attendance.
Please register your attendance by Wednesday 4 February 2026 using this form – S9(4) Deputy High Court Judge Seminar and drinks reception (external link).