The Criminal Committee is currently chaired by a High Court Judge, currently Mr Justice Pitchford. It provides induction and continuation training to enable full-time and part-time judges in the Crown Court to do their work effectively.

Nearly all newly appointed recorders hear criminal matters as the first stage in their judicial career. They are required to attend a residential four-day induction course, which helps prepare them for their first sittings by instructing them in the basic judicial skills.

The Committee organises continuation seminars for experienced judges at all levels. It also organises specialist seminars for experienced judges, for example on handling cases involving serious sexual offences, with the aim of further developing skills and exchanging experience within the judiciary.