LAWYERS are calling for a review of the criteria for new judges amid concerns about a lack of diversity on the bench.

Men currently represent more than 70 per cent of the judiciary, despite women making up half the workforce of the legal profession as a whole.

The Law Society wants more outreach work and mentoring in schools in a bid to promote the career choice to pupils and law students.

Rob Marrs, head of education at the Law Society, said that under current rules those who want to become a sheriff must have considerable court experience but this may be an "artificial barrier" to potential appointments.

He said: “In our view the relevant competencies for a judicial appointment are the ability to make good reasoned decisions within a reasonable time frame, knowledge of the law, knowledge of the rule of law and court procedure.

"These sit alongside the ability to deal with and understand those appearing before them and to be able to communicate complicated concepts in straightforward language – something which could become increasingly important if more people choose to represent themselves in court if they are unable to access legal aid.”

Mr Marrs said there had been "great strides" made in improving transparency in the appointments process.

“However it’s undeniable that there is currently a lack of diversity in our judiciary," he said.

“Our key recommendations include reviewing the existing criteria for judicial appointments and examining if there are unnecessary barriers which prevent potential candidates from applying.

"It’s important that as well as considering those recommended for appointment, we look at what can be done to broaden the pool of potential candidates."