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- Tasks: Assist court users and ensure smooth court proceedings.
- Company: Join the Civil Service, dedicated to public service and justice.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and extensive training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and ability to manage time effectively.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available; supportive and inclusive environment.
The predicted salary is between 21000 - 29000 £ per year.
Overview
General Information
Salary £25,012. Working Pattern: Full Time, Part Time, Part Time/Job Share, Flexible Working. Vacancy Approach: External. Location: Bristol, South West. Closing Date: 12-Sep-2025. Post Type: Fixed Term, Loan. Civil Service Grade: AA. Number of jobs available: 1. Reserve List: 12 Months. Job ID: 9378.
Your role
The Court Usher is a pivotal role in court proceedings and a vital link between court users and the Judiciary to ensure the smooth running of the hearings. You will be an essential first point of contact for all the court users, have regular contact with the judiciary and assisting the administrative staff. You will meet members of the public (which may include vulnerable witnesses and their legal representatives), prepare court/hearing rooms, and complete documentation, as well as ensuring the court runs efficiently. You will also carry out some general clerical work as required to support the work of HMCTS. Ushers work within a team with regular management support and are responsible for their own time.
Responsibilities
- Welcome and assist court users, including vulnerable individuals, and liaise with the judiciary and administrative staff.
- Prepare court/hearing rooms and complete required documentation to support hearings.
- Carry out general clerical tasks as required to support HMCTS operations.
- Manage own time within a team environment with supervision available.
Skills and Experience
- Friendly and approachable manner with strong communication skills; able to assist and address court users clearly and confidently.
- Ability to multi-task, prioritise, and organise own time; comfortable with IT and attention to detail to ensure accurate court documents.
- Willingness to adapt to new software packages and provide help and reassurance calmly and professionally in challenging situations.
Qualifications and Additional Details
- Standard full-time working hours are 37 hours per week. Part-time, flexible and job-sharing patterns are welcome where they meet role and business needs and are agreed prior to appointment.
- Minimum hours for part-time roles: 22.2 hours over three working days.
- Skilled Worker Visa: From 22 July 2025, the salary threshold and sponsorship rules have changed. This role does not meet eligibility for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship unless you have held a Skilled Worker visa continuously since before 22 July 2025. If you are eligible, raise it during vetting checks.
- Hybrid working arrangements may be available; employees are expected to spend a minimum of 60% of working time in an office, subject to local estate capacity.
Benefits and Working Arrangements
- Flexible working policies (part-time, flexible, job-sharing) in line with MoJ policy.
- Annual leave: 25 days on appointment, rising to 30 days after five years service; pro-rated for part-time posts. Opportunities to buy or sell up to three days’ leave each year. Public holidays and a privilege day are also included.
- Pension and extensive training opportunities; access to employee networks and family-friendly policies.
- Supportive environment with options for flexible benefits, childcare information, and disability-friendly adjustments in recruitment where applicable.
Additional Information
- Hybrid Working: Blends working from base location, different MoJ sites, or from home. All roles require spending at least 60% of working time in an office.
- Nationally advertised role: Appointment to the nearest viable office to home postcode (HQ, Justice Collaboration Centre, or Justice Satellite Office).
- Redundancy and redeployment considerations apply; approval from line managers required before applying for Fixed Term Appointments.
- Working for the Civil Service: Recruitment by merit, with transparency and compliance to Civil Service recruitment principles; inclusive practices including disability adjustments and veteran support.
- Nationality rules apply; see notes on eligibility for UK nationals and other eligible groups.
- Applications: Interview dates are expected to begin 7 October 2025 (face to face at Bristol Crown Court).
How to Apply and Contacts
For assistance, contact MoJ at 0345 241 5359 (Mon-Fri, 8am–6pm) or via email. Quote job reference 9378. For HMPPS assistance, call 0345 241 5358. Attachments include Usher Job Description.docx. The application may include CV/work history and evidence of experience, with interviews assessing behaviours (Communicating and Influencing, Managing a Quality Service).
Note
Job closing date and details are subject to change. Ensure you have the right to live and work in the UK. This description preserves the core information from the original posting without adding new facts.
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Court Usher employer: HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS)
Contact Detail:
HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Court Usher
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the court system and procedures. Understanding how court hearings operate will help you communicate effectively with court users and the judiciary, showcasing your knowledge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills by engaging with diverse groups of people. Being friendly and approachable is key for a Court Usher, so consider volunteering or taking part in community events to enhance your interpersonal skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Get comfortable with IT systems and documentation processes. Since attention to detail is crucial, try using practice software or templates to prepare court documents accurately, which will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss scenarios where you've managed multiple tasks or dealt with challenging situations. Think of examples from past experiences that highlight your ability to prioritise and remain calm under pressure, as these are essential traits for a Court Usher.
We think you need these skills to ace Court Usher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Court Usher position. Understand the responsibilities and skills required, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in your CV that aligns with the role of a Court Usher. Emphasise your communication skills, ability to manage time, and any experience working in a customer-facing role or within a legal environment.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and explains why you are a good fit. Mention specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Prepare for Behavioural Questions: Since interviews will assess behaviours like 'Communicating and Influencing' and 'Managing a Quality Service', prepare examples from your past experiences that illustrate these competencies. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS)
✨Show Your Communication Skills
As a Court Usher, strong communication is key. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly and confidently. You might want to share examples of how you've effectively assisted others in previous roles, especially in challenging situations.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
The role requires excellent time management and organisational skills. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise tasks and manage your time effectively. Consider providing specific examples from past experiences where you successfully juggled multiple responsibilities.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
The judiciary environment can be dynamic and sometimes unpredictable. Share instances where you've had to adapt quickly to new software or changing circumstances, showcasing your willingness to learn and support others calmly.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle real-life scenarios, especially involving vulnerable individuals. Think about how you would approach these situations with empathy and professionalism, and be ready to articulate your thought process during the interview.