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More than 45 University of Liverpool Law School students have recently completed official court marshalling placements with high-profile judges across the Northern Circuit, gaining rare and invaluable insights into the workings of the judiciary.
The placements were part of a wider initiative following the Pathways to the Judiciary event, held earlier this year at the School of Law and Social Justice. The event brought together over 20 judges and provided students with a unique opportunity to engage directly with members of the judiciary. Through open dialogue and first-hand accounts, students explored the professional journeys of experienced judges and gained invaluable insights into the diverse pathways into judicial careers.
Following the event, students were invited to express interest in court marshalling and judicial shadowing opportunities across the North West of England. These one-day placements, which took place during spring and summer 2025, allowed students to observe live courtroom proceedings, gain a rare behind-the-scenes insight into judicial decision-making and develop a deeper appreciation of the legal system in practice.
Students were placed with judges from a wide range of specialisms including Business and Property, Criminal, Employment, Family, Immigration, Commercial, Civil and Social Entitlement Law.
Reflecting on her experience, Kathryn Woolfall, LLB Law student, said: “Taking part in the Judiciary Outreach Court Marshalling Scheme has greatly deepened my appreciation for the sensitivity and practicalities involved in family law cases.
Being able to discuss with the judge how the court handles situations where children may need to give evidence was especially insightful and gave me a much deeper appreciation of the court’s role in supporting vulnerable parties throughout proceedings. The experience has certainly influenced my thoughts on what areas of law I may consider going into once I’ve finished university.”
The scheme will continue in the upcoming academic year, with further details to be shared in due course.