“Flexible” working on the Queen’s Bench

A vacancy for a High Court judge to work flexibly or part-time has been advertised for the first time.

In all, nine High Court judge positions are available in the Queen’s Bench and Family Division. Flexible working arrangements will be suitable for one of the Queen’s Bench Division posts. Provisions to allow this came into force in April, to encourage more women to apply.

Applicants need not be a QC or deputy High Court judge, but must be a high performing lawyer with significant experience and show leadership potential.

Lady Hale, deputy president of the Supreme Court, says: “We know there are plenty of able women and other diverse lawyers out there who could be great judges. There are fewer barriers now than ever before.”

Earlier this month, Lady Hale said she hoped to see another female justice in the Supreme Court before she retires.

There are now 19 women in the High Court, a record number, and seven in the Court of Appeal. Women made up a third of the last recommendations to the High Court.

Applications must be made by noon on 4 November.