A salaried full time judge who sits in a magistrates’ court, generally to hear more serious cases than those assigned to benches of two or three lay justices (of the peace). Replaced in August 2000 by the new role of District Judge (Magistrates’ Court).

They can be authorised to hear cases in the Family Court. Some are authorised to deal with extradition proceedings and terrorist cases. They are also authorised to sit as prison adjudicators.

There are also Deputy District Judges who are appointed on a fee-paid part time basis.