JABS requirement to recommend candidates only if they are of "good character" is set out in Section 12(3) of the Judiciary and Courts (Scotland) Act 2008.
Be open and honest when answering questions about your professional record or personal background. Remember that JABS will consult with others, including, where appropriate, the Crown Office, professional bodies, senior judiciary, the Scottish Legal Complaints Commission, the Scottish Legal Aid Board, so it is in your interests to disclose anything which may be identified at consultation.
JABS will also conduct social media and adverse media checks with our partner, Giant Screening. This is done to identify if there is any negative coverage about you which may call into question your suitability for judicial office.
Making a disclosure is not necessarily a barrier to recommendation. Any disclosures made will be considered by the panel and may be raised at interview where you will be given the opportunity to explain the situation further.
Early disclosure of relevant information avoids difficulties later in the process.
You will also be asked to confirm that you will be able and willing to comply with Guidance to Judicial Office Holders on Judicial Ethics in Scotland, published by Judicial Office for Scotland, or to state what changes you would need to make to enable you to comply with the requirements as set out in this document.