Proud to Serve. Proud to keep justice going.
As a bailiff you will play a vital role in the UKs Justice System working on the front line, dealing with people who are at some of the most challenging points of their lives.
About us
HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) is an agency of the Ministry of Justice. We provide support for the legal system across England and Wales, ensuring justice works for everyone.
Our Justice system defends our fundamental rights and freedoms. It is a cornerstone of our modern society. It protects some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, from families in crisis to claimants and commercial businesses. We have a responsibility to deliver a Justice system that is accessible to everyone and operates efficiently.
We asked some bailiffs what they loved about their job, and here are their responses:
The abilities you need as a bailiff is the ability to listen, to be a good communicator and you need a persuasive manner to explain that its an order from the Courts that has to be carried out, whilst, showing great empathy for customers.
I do love this job, it's only my 3rd job since I left school, Im 58, my first job I had for around 39 years, I probably havent got another 39 left, but if I did, Id hope Im still a bailiff.
Being a bailiff is incredibly rewarding
you are part of a select group within HMCTS, you can draw on the experience of colleagues who will always be on hand to give advice or support you when needed. Its not just a job- its who you are and how you deliver it.
Your role
We understand that this role will not suit everyone, but if you like a dynamic job that has different challenges each day a bailiff role may suit you.
To be a successful bailiff, you will be an excellent communicator. You need to be able to swiftly assess circumstances, adapt accordingly and be a confident leader in emotionally charged situations.
As a Bailiff you will be visiting people in their homes and businesses, you must be able to calmly explain why you are visiting and what options are available to help resolve matters. You must be able to demonstrate empathy for court users, be non-judgmental but focussed on carrying out your role whilst fully respecting the customers that you meet.
You will be able to plan your days to manage your workload but be able to cope and adapt with plans changing at short notice.
We give you the option of using your own car or, following successful completion of your probation period, a lease car, (UK driving licence required for a lease car) so a full licence entitling you to drive permanently in Great Britain is essential. Fuel allowances are paid. You will receive full PPE and safety training to give you the knowledge and confidence to conduct your bailiff duties successfully. You should be familiar with using IT and be comfortable with receiving training on the courts case management systems.
If you have excellent customer service skills, prefer working away from an office, enjoy working by yourself or in a small team and like your days to be varied, then working as a bailiff may be the job for you.
Not to be confused with private Bailiffs, this role gives you the opportunity to make a difference in HMCTS and develop your career within the Civil Service.
Were passionate about delivering Justice for everybody in the UK. That means having a diverse workforce that fully represents the people we serve so if you have the confidence and desire to make a difference and are interested, please apply.
Please refer to the role profile attachment for more information.
Further information:
Standard full time working hours are 37 hours per week. This is a business-critical role requiring full-time hours.
Skilled Worker Visa
From 22 July 2025, the Government increased the salary threshold and skills level for Skilled Worker visas. This role does not meet the eligibility criteria for sponsorship in accordance with the current immigration rules if you looking to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa for the first time.
The Department cannot consider sponsoring you for this role unless you have held a Skilled Worker visa continuously since before 22 July 2025. If you have held a Skilled Worker visa continuously, please raise this during your vetting checks and eligibility will be assessed in accordance with the immigration rules and transitional provisions in place.
If you are applying for this role and you do not meet the new eligibility criteria for sponsorship (or the transitional provisions), you will need to consider your options for obtaining and/or maintaining your right to work in the UK in light of these changes. Successful applicants must ensure they have and maintain the legal right to live and work in the Civil Service and in the United Kingdom.
The Department will continue to comply with UK Immigration Rules applied in the UK and Civil Service. You can read more about Skilled Worker visas and the eligibility criteria here.
For further information please see the following link:
Becoming an HMCTS Bailiff: Flexible Hours, Real Support, Real Impact
