Details

As a result of the retirement of Lord Richards in June 2026, applications are sought for the appointment of a Justice of the UK Supreme Court.

The UK Supreme Court and Judicial Committee of the Privy Council hear a wide range of very complex and high-profile legal appeals, which can have a considerable impact across the United Kingdom and beyond.

All those appointed to the Court need to be people of truly exceptional intellectual and legal ability, with sound judgment and decisiveness. The selection commission is looking for candidates who can show an ability to contribute to the collegiate decision-making of the Court, a sensitivity to the needs of different communities and groups and an ability and willingness to engage in the wider representational and leadership role of a Justice, together with an appreciation of the developing nature of the constitution and law in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. The Supreme Court is required by statute to have judges with a knowledge of, and experience of practice in, the law of each part of the United Kingdom. On this occasion, the selection commission is looking to appoint a candidate with substantial experience in equity and corporate law.

The UK Supreme Court’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is deeply rooted in its values. We recognise that diversity brings richness to the judiciary and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We support part-time and flexible working, subject to the needs of the Court.

Please contact Grainne Hawkins (grainne.hawkins@supremecourt.uk tel: 020 7960 1906) for further details on the selection process and/or an application form.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on 14th November 2025.

To support and encourage potential applicants the Supreme Court will be offering:

  • familiarisation visits for people considering applying for an appointment as a Justice. These visits will include a tour of the Court building and a meeting with a Justice.
  • a series of podcasts, featuring interviews with serving Justices, speaking about their career path and why they applied to become a Justice, as well as sharing insights into what the application process felt like and what advice they would give someone considering applying. https://www.supremecourt.uk/about-the-court/judicial-vacancy
  • a short video by the President of the Supreme Court, Lord Reed, announcing the launch of the recruitment campaign and providing information about the application process:   https://youtu.be/VHRAxYvmCb8