Judicial Fellowship Program: Participant Criteria, Program Agenda, and FAQs

Published

March 20, 2025

Overview

In October 2025, the Judicial Fellowship Program will bring 20 international judges and magistrates to Washington, D.C., and the Commonwealth of Virginia for two weeks of customized education and networking opportunities. Presented in partnership with The Presidential Precinct and working with the National Center for State Courts, James Madison’s Montpelier, and our academic partners at the University of Virginia, we will present a comprehensive and immersive program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to foster critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and a deep understanding of the rule of law.

Participant Criteria

The pilot program is designed for early- or mid-career judges and magistrates from countries in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. Ideal candidates will have a demonstrated commitment to upholding the Rule of Law in their respective jurisdictions.

Additional qualifications include:

Five to seven years’ experience presiding over civil or criminal cases
A clear commitment to integrity and ethical conduct
Proven record of leadership
Willingness to share and apply the knowledge, skills, and perspectives gained to advance the rule of law
Strong communication and collaboration skills
Proficiency in English

Program Agenda

The 2025 program will span over two weeks, featuring activities in Washington, DC and Charlottesville, Virginia.

Teaching methods will emphasize interactive exercises, case studies, simulations and experiential learning.

September 27-October 5: Washington, D.C.
The Institute will open in Washington, D.C., where delegation members will begin their exploration of the United States federal system of national and subnational courts and jurisdictions. Delegation members will meet with legal experts, including those from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. They will learn tools and methods to evaluate judicial performance and professionalism, instill and uphold a judicial code of conduct, and advocate for internal reforms. They will have an opportunity to engage in workshops with leading experts from the National Center for State Courts. Site visits will include the U.S. Supreme Court and National Archives. Fellows will also have an opportunity to explore the rich, historical city of Washington, D.C.
October 6-12: Charlottesville
Delegation members will next travel to Charlottesville, Virginia. Working with leading faculty, they will further explore constitutionalism and facets of U.S. jurisprudence including an adversarial system of criminal justice, civil rights, victims’ rights, anti-corruption, and the judiciary’s intersections with the military and legislative branches of government. Sessions and site visits will explore administration and training, including international best practices for judicial appointments and elections, moot courts and other proven methods to strengthen litigation skills and investigative techniques, and adoption of information technology to manage dockets and increase public access and transparency. Delegation members will also have opportunities to experience greater Charlottesville’s vibrant and diverse cultural activities and visit historic sites including James Madison’s Montpelier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a fully funded program?

All travel, lodging, group meals, and group admissions are covered for participants for the duration of the 2025 program.

Will I need to secure my own visa to participate?

Invited participants are expected to secure a visa to travel to the United States. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation will provide a letter of invitation to each participant to support the visa application process.

When can I submit my application?