The Masters of the Bench, or Benchers, are responsible for its governance. Masters are elected by their peers from the Inn’s members who have been Called to the Bar. The majority of the Inn’s Benchers are King's Counsel or senior members of the judiciary. The title ‘Master’ is used as a gender-neutral form of address.
Middle Temple currently has 516 Ordinary Benchers and 122 Senior (retired) Benchers. The Inn also elects Honorary Masters of the Bench, distinguished individuals from other walks of life who have excelled in their respective professions. Currently the Inn has 201 Honorary Benchers. The Inn has one Royal Bencher, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.
Bench Seniority is determined by date of Call to the Bar for members of the Inn, and at the Treasurer's discretion for Honorary Benchers.
To search for Benchers or for more details on individual Benchers, click on the Bench directory link on the left hand side of the page. For ease of reference, some quick links to different groups of Benchers within Middle Temple are below: