Solicitors aspiring to follow in the footsteps of Lord Collins of Mapesbury, the only solicitor so far to have sat on the Supreme Court bench, have their chance this month as the court looks for a new justice and deputy president. The current deputy, Lord Hodge, retires at the end of this year. The highest court of the land is looking for ‘sound judgment and decisiveness'.
As the court doesn't seem to have an advertising budget, we'll help out.
Supreme Court president Lord Reed said: ‘Candidates require a deep level of legal knowledge and understanding, combined with high intellectual capacity and an understanding of the social context in which these issues arise and of the communities which the law is there to serve.
‘They will need to demonstrate exceptional legal ability, maturity of judgment, an ability to work within a system of collegiate decision-making, an understanding of the constitutional context in which the court operates, and a willingness to engage in wider outreach activities.’
Eligible candidates include those who have held ‘high judicial office’ for at least two years, practised as a solicitor, barrister or advocate for at least 15 years, or who have held a ‘relevant qualification’ for at least 15 years and has gained experience in law for at least 15 years.
That rules Obiter out, which is a shame because black and gold is definitely our colour.
The closing date for applications is 25 April. We wish Gazette readers the best of luck with their applications.
2 Readers' comments