The Judicial Service Commission invites suitably qualified citizens to apply for the posts of Judge of the High Court.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Legal
- Closing Date: 2026-05-20
Key Responsibilities
- Presiding over all criminal and civil cases, including appeals from courts below the High Court in the hierarchy.
- Hearing all applications brought before the court for determination of any issue, including constitutional issues; and
- Any other duties as may from time to time be assigned by the Chief Justice or His Excellency the President of the Republic of Botswana.
Requirements
- Hold, or must have held office, as Judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in Civil and criminal matters in Botswana, in a Commonwealth Country or in any country outside the Commonwealth that may be prescribed by Parliament or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from such a court; or
- Be qualified to practice as an advocate or attorney in such a court and has been qualified for not less than ten years to practice as an advocate or attorney in such a court.
- Be qualified to practice as an attorney and has had experience in the teaching of law in a recognized university for not less than ten years.
- Be a Chief Magistrate who has held that office for not less than five years.
Salary
Salary Scale: F0 (820 920.00) per annum. Benefits: (1) Free furnished residential accommodation or housing allowance of P13, 905 per month where there is no official residence provided. (2) 90% subsidy for utilities. (3) 35% Scarce Skill Allowance. (4) Robing Allowance at P3 708 per annum. (5) Entertainment Allowance at P13 589.70. (6) Chauffer driven motor vehicle.
How to Apply
APPLICATIONS: Applicants should quote the number of this Vacancy Circular and give the following details: 1. Brief summary of career with duties (Curriculum Vitae). 2. Certified copy of Omang 3. Certified copies of academic and professional certificates and at least two (2) references. 4. In case of serving officers, the following information must be provided; i. Date of first appointment, present post, grade and date of appointment thereto. ii. Applications should be routed through the Accounting Officer, applications not so routed will not be considered. IMPORTANT: Applications should be addressed to: The Secretary of the Judicial Service Commission, Private Bag 00220, Gaborone OR Hand Deliver at Gaborone High Court, 1st Floor, Office NO: D1 017. For further information required contact the Judicial Service Commission Secretariat @ 3718009 or 3718042. CLOSING DATE: 20th May 2026
REF Code: 1/6/2 VIII (30) | Vacancy Circular No: 4 OF 2026
About the Company
The administration of justice is the process by which the legal system of a government is executed. The presumed goal of such an administration is to provide justice for all those accessing the legal system.
Website: https://www.justice.gov.bw/
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and experience needed to become a High Court Judge in Botswana?
Candidates usually require a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree and many years of extensive post-qualification experience as a legal practitioner, often including senior roles at the Bar or as a Magistrate. The Judicial Service Commission seeks individuals with a proven track record of legal excellence, high ethical standards, and judicial temperament.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a High Court Judge in Botswana?
High Court Judges primarily preside over complex civil and criminal cases, hearing evidence, legal arguments, and delivering reasoned judgments. They are also responsible for managing their court rolls, conducting pre-trial conferences, and engaging in thorough legal research to ensure sound application of Botswana's laws.
What is the work culture and expectations like for Judges within Botswana's judicial system?
The judicial culture in Botswana demands strict adherence to the rule of law, unwavering impartiality, and upholding the integrity of the justice system. Judges are expected to maintain complete professional independence, demonstrate exemplary ethical conduct, and manage significant workloads with diligence and meticulous attention to detail.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a High Court Judge in Botswana?
As this is already a very senior and esteemed judicial position, typical career progression for a High Court Judge often involves elevation to the Court of Appeal as a Justice of Appeal. Exceptionally distinguished individuals may also be considered for the ultimate appointment as Chief Justice, leading the entire judiciary of Botswana.
What typical benefits are associated with the role of a High Court Judge in Botswana, such as leave, medical aid, and pension?
Judges in Botswana typically receive a comprehensive benefits package befitting their senior public service role, which includes generous annual leave provisions and robust medical aid coverage. A substantial pension scheme is also usually provided to ensure financial security and stability upon retirement.
How does one typically apply for this prestigious role, and what does the Judicial Service Commission in Botswana look for in candidates?
Appointment to this prestigious role is primarily through nomination or an expression of interest to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), followed by a rigorous vetting and selection process. The JSC seeks candidates demonstrating exceptional legal acumen, impeccable integrity, extensive experience in senior legal practice, and a profound, unwavering commitment to justice in Botswana.