I have heard it said several times by applicants applying for a judicial post that the self-assessment doesn’t really matter as you simply have to pass the JAC online qualifying test in order to reach selection day.
This view is flawed for the following 3 reasons:
- Whilst it’s correct that in many selection exercises you must pass both stages of the JAC qualifying test, there is no qualifying test for a number of competitions including CJ, section 9, full time High Court and Court of Appeal. In these exercises, your self-assessment is of critical importance as to whether you progress to a selection day.
- In all competitions your self-assessment sets the stage for your selection day interview in the same way well drafted pleadings are an asset to an advocate before they enter the court or tribunal
- In all competitions, your self-assessment is one of the matters the selection panel take into account when deciding whether or to recommend you for appointment.