This week, I had the privilege of shadowing a District Judge for a day – and it felt like a real full circle moment. I was back in the same court where I first did work experience at 16, where I shadowed my supervising solicitors on my first possession claims, and where I stood for my own first advocacy years ago.
I shadowed the Judge through a busy list, which involved reviewing papers together, discussing cases ahead of hearings, and reflecting afterwards on decisions, damages calculations, and evidence. The hearings covered a variety of applications, considerations, and points of law – it was fascinating to see the range of issues judges have to determine on the spot and the pressures that come with that responsibility.
We also had time for lunch and a debrief at the end of the day, which rounded off an experience that gave me insight and a different perspective on judicial pressures and the court process from the inside. It was a rare opportunity to step behind the bench and gain insight into decision-making, which will hopefully assist in day-to-day practice.