Court Associate – Leicester

Job Description

About the Role

Proud to Serve. Proud to Keep Justice Going.

As a Court Associate, you play a vital role in ensuring Magistrates’ Court hearings run smoothly and efficiently. You will work closely with the Judge, legal professionals, and court users to ensure proceedings are accurate, fair, and well-coordinated.

This role requires excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work calmly and confidently under pressure. You will manage court documentation, liaise with multiple stakeholders, and help maintain the integrity of the judicial process.

About HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS)

HMCTS is an executive agency of the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) responsible for administering criminal, civil, and family courts and tribunals across England and Wales. Our teams play a key role in helping individuals and businesses access fair and timely justice.

We are looking for people who are committed to public service and passionate about making a real difference in people’s lives.

About You

You are a confident communicator who can engage effectively with a wide range of people — including Judges, legal professionals, media representatives, and members of the public — in a calm and professional manner.

You’ll work as part of a Legal Team, supporting daily court sittings, ensuring hearings run smoothly, and maintaining accurate and timely records of proceedings. You must be confident speaking publicly, managing sensitive information, and handling fast-paced administrative work with precision.

Key Responsibilities

Support the Judge and legal team during court sessions to ensure hearings run efficiently.

Prepare and process accurate court documents, such as pleas, orders, and hearing outcomes.

Communicate confidently and professionally in the courtroom and with external parties.

Ensure all documentation meets required standards and deadlines.

Record, manage, and update information using HMCTS systems and digital platforms.

Work collaboratively with colleagues to deliver excellent customer service.

Adapt quickly to new systems, technologies, and working practices as processes evolve.

Occasionally travel to Loughborough or other nearby courts as required.

Essential Skills and Experience

Proven ability to work as part of a team while delivering high-quality customer service.

Confident public speaker with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally in a courtroom setting.

Excellent organisational, communication, and prioritisation skills.

Strong attention to detail with the ability to complete time-sensitive documents accurately.

IT proficiency and adaptability to new software and technologies.

Resilience, professionalism, and a willingness to learn and develop in a fast-paced environment.

Working Arrangements

Standard hours: 37 hours per week (Monday to Friday).

Part-time and flexible options available (minimum 22.2 hours per week over 3 days).

Office-based role: Due to the nature of the work, this position requires attendance at the office.

Hybrid working may be considered, subject to business needs (minimum 60% of time in the office).

Occasional travel to Loughborough may be required.

Visa and Right to Work Information

From 22 July 2025, new government rules have raised the salary and skills thresholds for Skilled Worker visas.
This role does not meet sponsorship eligibility under the current immigration criteria.

Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in the UK.
If you have held a Skilled Worker visa continuously since before 22 July 2025, eligibility will be reviewed under transitional provisions.
GOV.UK – Skilled Worker visa information

Benefits

HMCTS and the Ministry of Justice offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

25 days annual leave (rising to 30 after 5 years) plus public holidays and one privilege day.

Option to buy or sell up to 3 days annual leave per year.

Civil Service Pension Scheme with flexible contribution options.

Learning and development opportunities for professional growth.

Flexible working policies to support work-life balance.

Employee support networks for diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing.

Family-friendly policies, including paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.

Retail discounts, voluntary benefits, and access to Tax-Free Childcare via Childcare Choices

Free annual eyesight tests for screen users.

Diversity and Inclusion

HMCTS is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds.
We will offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet the minimum selection criteria.

We also support the “Great Place to Work for Veterans” initiative, providing guaranteed interviews for eligible former service personnel.
Learn more here: Making the Civil Service a Great Place to Work for Veterans

We are committed to equality, inclusion, and fair opportunities for all.

Recruitment Process

Application Stage

You will need to complete a Statement of Suitability, demonstrating how your skills and experience align with the job requirements.

Include specific, evidence-based examples of what you have done and how it relates to this role.

Assessment

Experience assessed via Statement of Suitability.

Behaviour assessed: Managing a Quality Service (250-word limit).

Interview Stage

Behaviours assessed:

Communicating and Influencing

Working Together

Delivering at Pace

Strengths will also be assessed (not shared in advance).

Interviews expected November 2025.

Security Clearance

A Standard DBS check is required for this role.