Revised Lord Chancellor’s Directions affecting the magistracy

An updated version of the Lord Chancellor’s Directions for Advisory Committees have been published.

They reflect a wide range of reforms to improve recruitment, governance, and operational efficiency across the magistracy.

From 1 November 2025, there are two versions of the Directions:

• A Routine version, which reflects standard updates to recruitment, appointment, and oversight processes. 

• A Pathways version, which includes amended Parts 1 and 3 only. Regions using this version should continue to follow Parts 2, 4, and 5, and all annexes, as normal. 

These updates aim to support faster, fairer, and more consistent recruitment while maintaining high standards across all regions.

Please note that the Directions are currently being translated into Welsh, and these will be made available before the next scheduled round of recruitment campaigns.

• If magistrates have any questions, please contact the Magistrates HR team or your Regional Advisory Committee secretary.