How Often are Competitions Held
The timing and frequency of recruitment competitions are determined by the Scottish Government.
There is no fixed timetable for judicial recruitment. Vacancies can arise for a variety of reasons, including retirements, resignations, promotions, changes in workload, the creation of additional judicial posts and budgetary considerations.
As a result, JABS cannot predict when future competitions will be held. Each competition is a separate recruitment exercise and applications must be submitted when vacancies are advertised.
JABS is however working with the Scottish Government and Judicial Office to develop short and medium term planning of competitions for judicial office.
I have applied before – can I apply again?
Yes.
Whether you choose to apply again is a matter for you, but previous applicants are welcome to apply in future competitions if they remain eligible.
JABS provides feedback to unsuccessful applicants where this has been requested. You may find this feedback helpful when deciding whether to reapply and how you can strengthen a future application.
Can I use the same application?
You should review your application carefully before reapplying.
If you have received feedback from a previous competition, you should consider how that feedback can be reflected in your new application. You should also ensure that your application addresses the specific requirements set out in the role profile for the competition you are applying to.
Even where the role title is the same, the skills, experience or qualities being assessed may differ depending on the circumstances of the competition.
I was selected for interview the in a previous round, will I get to that stage again?
Not necessarily.
Each competition is assessed independently and every application is considered on its own merits. Success in a previous competition does not guarantee success in a future competition, even where the role is the same.
The panel will assess your application against the requirements of the specific competition. Factors such as the strength of the applicant field, the number of vacancies available and the evidence provided in applications may all influence the outcome.
It is therefore possible to be invited to interview in one competition but not in another for the same role.
Will I receive feedback if I apply again and I’m unsuccessful?
Yes.
Applicants who are unsuccessful at sift or interview may request feedback. JABS aims to provide feedback that is clear, constructive and helpful in understanding the outcome of the competition.
If I narrowly missed out the last time, will I be put on a reserve list?
Generally, JABS will not establish a reserve list. JABS will only do so where it has been specifically asked to by the Scottish Government.
Where a reserve list is held, the period for which it remains valid may vary depending on the role being recruited and the requirements of the Scottish Government.
Inclusion on a reserve list does not guarantee a future recommendation or appointment. In some circumstances, the Scottish Government may decide that a new competition should be run instead. Where this happens, the new competition will take precedence over any existing reserve list.