Different types of judge
There are several different types of judge that adjudicate over legal matters in England and Wales. In the past there were two very distinct types of judge: criminal judges and civil judges.
A criminal judge is somebody who will preside over all types of criminal dispute, usually in a Crown Court. The role of a judge will be slightly different in a criminal court as often it will be the juries that decide if the defendant is guilty or not guilty. The judge will therefore have the role of ensuring the right questions have been asked in the case and the juries are aware of the standard of proof needed for a guilty verdict. The judge will then have the task of sentencing the defendant should a guilty verdict be reached.
A judge in a civil court will be decide on the balance of probabilities which party ‘wins’ the case. However, the distinction between these two types of judge is less important these days with many judges practicing in both civil and criminal courts.
The proportion of judges sitting on the court.
The greater proportions of judges sit on tribunals. There are more than 60 different tribunals. The work they cover includes mental health, social security, and employment and immigration law. Within those jurisdictions judges hear and decide more than simply legal issues. In Tribunals judges can sit alone or with other tribunal panel members. For example, on appeals from a decision by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to refuse a claimant Disability Living Allowance judges sit with a medically-qualified member, generally a GP or Consultant, and a disability-qualified member who can be a social worker, occupational therapist or physiotherapist. On Employment Tribunals judges sit alone or with panel members who may be from an employers or an employees' organization.
Structure of the court system
Anybody wishing to become a judge should be aware of the structure of the court system and thus the hierarchy of the judges. If you are to become a judge you are likely to be appointed as a circuit or district judge in the first instance. These are very high-profile and important positions as they will involve ruling over cases in different County Courts. Usually a particular judge will be designated an area and then be sent to several different courts in that area depending on the needs of each particular court. After years of practicing at this level and with increased qualifications it may be possible to be promoted to a High Court judge where you will sit in higher-valued claims in the Royal Courts of Justice in London.
Public prosecutor
Prosecutors are responsible for reviewing and, where appropriate, prosecuting criminal cases following investigation by the police. They also advise the police on matters relating to criminal cases.
In each case reviewed the prosecutor will consider whether there is sufficient evidence and, if so, whether the public interest requires a prosecution. To apply for a post as a lawyer you must be a solicitor admitted in England with a full current practicing certificate, or a barrister called to the English Bar who has completed pupillage. And you will need