Author: Dom Watts

Dom Watts founded the Ministry of Injustice in July 2021. Dom is an IT Professional with 30+ years experience in Tier 1 Banking, Government, Defence, Healthcare and Global Blue Chips. Dom has no legal training and is not a lawyer but has previously consulted for a Magic Circle Law Firm. You can find Dom on X or Google.

Dom Watts publishes the Ministry of Injustice as a citizen journalist. The journalism exemption is detailed in the Data protection and journalism code of practice published by the ICO and Section 124 of the Data Protection Act 2018.

Section 2 of the Defamation Act 2013 sets out the defence of truth. Section 3 of the Defamation Act 2013 sets out the defence of honest opinion. Section 4 of the Defamation Act 2013 sets out the defence of public interest. Section 8 of the Defamation Act 2013 sets out the single publication rule.

Section 4a of The Limitation Act 1980 defines the time limit for actions for defamation or malicious falsehood as one year from the date on which the cause of action accrued.

Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998 gives the right to freedom of expression. "This right shall include freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart information and ideas without interference by public authority and regardless of frontiers."

"Free speech encompasses the right to offend, and indeed to abuse another." - Para 43 Scottow v CPS [2020] EWHC 3421 (Admin)

"Free speech is a fundamental common law right" - Para 21 R v Shayler [2002] UKHL 11 [2003] 1 AC 247 per Lord Bingham and Para 42 Phillips -v- Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs [2024] EWHC 32 (Admin)

Dom is a member of The Free Speech Union

“A key issue here is the need to distinguish between conduct which, however objectionable, does not justify invoking the criminal law and conduct which crosses the line and results in criminal liability" - Para 31 R v O’Neill [2016] EWCA Crim 92 [2016]

“Harassment is generally understood to involve improper oppressive and unreasonable conduct that is targeted at an individual and calculated to produce alarm and distress” - Para 38 R v O’Neill [2016] EWCA Crim 92 [2016]

"The behaviour said to amount to harassment must reach a level of seriousness passing beyond irritations, annoyances....The gravity of the misconduct must be of an order which would sustain criminal liability" - Paras [40-44] Hayden v Dickenson [2020] EWHC 3291 (QB)

"If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything"

In 2002 Dom Watts was an unlikely consumer champion. The dad of three from Croydon took on the power and might of Kodak – and won...Dom on BBC Working Lunch

Categories
Criminal Justice Judiciary Legal Professionals

His Honour Judge Jeremy Richardson KC

HHJ Jeremy Richardson KC

His Honour Judge Jeremy Richardson KC (The Recorder of Sheffield) sentenced Grandfather Peter Lynch, who had pleaded guilty to a charge of violent disorder, to a jail term of two years and eight months on the 22nd August 2024.

“You did not yourself attack any police officer, as far as can be detected, but what you did was encourage by your conduct others to behave violently and you were part of this mob……What a disgraceful example you are as a grandfather.”

HHJ Richardson KC

A Prison Service spokeswoman said on Monday 21st October 2024 “HMP Moorland prisoner Peter Lynch died on October 19 2023.”

“As with all deaths in custody, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate.”

There has been an outpouring of public opinion since the death of Peter Lynch including the “harsh sentence” handed down by His Honour Judge Jeremy Richardson KC and the suspected influence of British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer KC on the criminal justice system.

Kay Burley asked the Lord Chancellor on Sky TV : Should Peter Lynch a first time offender with a poor health record, have been jailed?

Did Keir Starmer Sign a ‘Death Sentence’ for Peter Lynch? HHJ Richardson KC ?
Judge Jeremy Richardson on X
The Recorder of Sheffield HHJ Jeremy Richardson KC
Did He Deserve Three Years In Jail – His Honour Judge Richardson KC ?

HHJ Richardson is shown on the List of Circuit Judges published on the Courts and Tribunal Judiciary website.

His Honour Judge Jeremy William Richardson KCNorth East14-05-2018
List of Circuit Judges

HHJ Richardson is shown on the Resident Judges list published on the Courts and Tribunal Judiciary website.

CircuitCourtJudgesDate of appointment
 North EastSheffield Combined Court CentreHHJ Jeremy Richardson KC14-05-18
Resident Judges

His Honour Judge Richardson is a Circuit Judge.

His Honour Judge Jeremy Richardson is a Master of the Bench at the Inner Temple. He has been a Judicial Governing Bencher since the 19th July 2007.

HHJ Richardson is also Master of the Inner Temple LGBTQ+ Society, and member of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity Sub-Committee.

The three key values which are central to the role of judicial office holders (JOHs) in England and Wales are:
• Independence
• Impartiality
• Integrity

Authorisation to sit as a High Court Judge

HHJ Richardson may be authorised to sit as a High Court Judge by s9(1) of the Senior Courts Act as amended by the Crime and Courts Act 2013.

According to CRIMINAL PRACTICE DIRECTIONS 2015 DIVISION XII HHJ Richardson should be addressed as “My Lord” in court.

Modes of Address B.1 – The following judges, when sitting in court, should be addressed as ‘My Lord’ or ‘My Lady’

(b) any Circuit Judge sitting as a judge of the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) or the High Court under section 9(1) of the Senior Courts Act 1981;
(d) any Senior Circuit Judge who is an Honorary Recorder.

Description B.3 – In cause lists, forms and orders members of the judiciary should be described as follows:

(a) Circuit Judges, as ‘His [or Her] Honour Judge A’. When the judge is sitting as a judge of the High Court under section 9(1) of the Senior Courts Act 1981, the words ‘sitting as a judge of the High Court’ should be added;

“Publicity is the very soul of justice. . . . It keeps the judge himself, while trying, under trial….Where there is no publicity there is no justice”

Jeremy Bentham – Mr Justice Cobb: ‘Justice must be seen to be done’

Image of HHJ Richardson : Grimsby Telegraph

Check out our articles on Dodgy Judges, Mr Justice Williams, His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Andrew Menary KC, His Honour Judge Guy Kearl, His Honour Now His Dishonour, His Honour Judge Michael Slater, His Honour Judge Martin Davis, HHJ Farquhar, HHJ Bedford, DDJ Nicholes, Do you Have to Bow to a Judge ?, Can you Email a Judge ?, Can you Criticise a Judge ? and the highly dubious Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Categories
Judiciary Legal Analysis Legal Professionals

Can you Email a Judge ?

Email a Judge

The Judiciary of England and Wales use Microsoft 365 for email using the ejudiciary.net domain. This domain is connected to the Internet and accepts email via MX ejudiciary-net.mail.protection.outlook.com. This is public information.

ejudiciary.net M365
ejudiciary.net – Microsoft 365

The rule of law is a fundamental constitutional principle which underpins an open, fair and peaceful society, where citizens and businesses can prosper. Our judges and magistrates are its cornerstone.

Lady Chief Justice on the public ejudiciary.net page

I sent an email lawfully requesting information about his “occupation” to His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC copying the The Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales (LCJ) on the 21st October 2024.

To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: HHJ Melbourne Inman KC – Media Enquiry
Importance: High

Dear Judge

cc The Right Honourable The Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales

I asked the Judiciary Press Office for comment (as below) on Friday 18th October 2024 but they have not replied.

Could you please answer the following questions :-

  1. Are you a Circuit Judge or High Court Judge ?
  2. Are you authorised to sit as a High Court Judge ?
  3. Should your occupation at  Companies House be shown as High Court Judge ?

An article was published at noon on the 18th October 2024 https://ministryofinjustice.co.uk/his-honour-judge-melbourne-inman-kc/. It has received a considerable amount of worldwide attention.

The Lady Chief Justice states as a co-signatory of the document Judicial Discipline –  Misconduct and recommending sanctions (https://www.complaints.judicialconduct.gov.uk/rulesandregulations/MisconductandRecommendingSanctions)

“As Lord Chancellor and Lady Chief Justice, we are jointly responsible for judicial discipline………The public has a right to expect that on the rare occasions when judicial office holders do not meet the high standards of conduct expected of them, action will be taken.”

I do not believe that the JCIO will accept a complaint concerning “misrepresentation” hence the cc to The Right Honourable The Lady Chief Justice to deal with and action.

Regards

Email to HHJ Inman and The Lady Chief Justice

An autoreply was received from the LCJ’s former High Court email address.

From: Archived Mail Address – Carr LJ <[email protected]>
Subject: Automatic reply: HHJ Melbourne Inman KC – Media Enquiry

Dame Sue Carr has now been appointed as the Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales, please direct any queries to [email protected]

So yes you can email a judge…however

Sending threatening or malicious messages using a public electronic communication, such as via email, may amount to an offence. Do not do it.

The relevant legislation of England and Wales includes :-

Malicious Communications Act 1988 Section 1
Communications Act 2003 Section 127
Part 10 of the Online Safety Act 2023
Protection from Harassment Act 1997
Computer Misuse Act 1990

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) publish legal guidance on Communications Offences.

Judicial Email Format

Judges are by their very nature public figures. Open justice is a fundamental principle at the very heart of the justice system and vital to the rule of law.

‘It is not merely of some importance but is of fundamental importance that justice should not only be done, but should manifestly and undoubtedly be seen to be done’

R v Sussex Justices –  Lord Hewart

Judicial email addresses, including High Court Judges, are widely published on the internet and easily found by a simple Google search. This article only contains publicly and readily available information.

The format for most judicial email addresses are as follows :-

Sent an Email to the Wrong Person ?

“Publicity is the very soul of justice. . . . It keeps the judge himself, while trying, under trial….Where there is no publicity there is no justice”

Jeremy Bentham – Mr Justice Cobb: ‘Justice must be seen to be done’

Check out our articles on Dodgy Judges, Judges Salaries and Fees, Can you Criticise a Judge, Criminal Justice Secure eMail (CJSM), Do you Have to Bow to a Judge ?, His Honour Now His Dishonour, His Honour Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Judge Jeremy Richardson KC, His Honour Judge Michael Slater, His Honour Judge Martin Davis, HHJ Farquhar and the highly dubious Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Categories
Legal Analysis

Lying vs Dishonesty ?

Lying vs Dishonesty

Lying refers to the act of deliberately telling or conveying something that is not true, with the intent to deceive or mislead someone. People, companies and institutions may lie for various reasons, such as shame, panic, or the desire to cover for someone else.

Here are some key aspects of lying :-

  • Intent: The person knows the truth but chooses to say something false.
  • Purpose: It often aims to manipulate the perception or actions of others.
  • Examples: Saying you didn’t do something you actually did, or claiming knowledge of something you don’t know.

Dishonesty, while encompassing lying, is broader and can include various forms of untruthfulness or withholding the truth.

Here’s what dishonesty entails :-

  • Scope: It includes not only lying but also actions like:
    • Misleading: Providing information in a way that leads to a false conclusion without directly lying.
    • Omission: Leaving out important information that would change the understanding of the situation.
    • Exaggeration: Stretching the truth to an extent that it misrepresents reality.
    • Deception: Using any method (including lies, but not limited to) to make someone believe something that isn’t true.
  • Intent: While lying always involves intent to deceive, dishonesty can sometimes be less deliberate, such as when someone might inadvertently mislead by not clarifying a misunderstanding.
  • Examples:
    • Not correcting someone’s false assumption (omission).
    • Overstating one’s qualifications in a resume (exaggeration).
    • Crafting a story in a way that manipulates the truth without directly lying (misleading).

Key Differences:

  • Directness: Lying is direct falsification of truth, while dishonesty can be indirect or through omission.
  • Intent: Lying always requires intent to deceive; dishonesty might not always involve deliberate deceit.
  • Behaviour: Lying is a specific behaviour within the broader spectrum of dishonesty.

A Lucas Direction, stemming from the case of R v Lucas (Ruth) [1981] EWCA Crim J0519-8, is a legal principle used in criminal trials to guide the jury on how to consider the evidence of lies told by a defendant. The case of Regina v Lucas (Ruth) is a landmark decision that established the criteria under which a lie can be considered as evidence of guilt.

In essence, all lies are dishonest, but not all dishonesty involves lying. Dishonesty can be more passive or indirectly manipulative, whereas lying is an active, deliberate fabrication of the truth.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

Latest Articles ↓

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Categories
Criminal Justice Judiciary Legal Professionals

His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC

His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC

His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC (The Recorder of Birmingham) sentenced Lucy Connolly at Birmingham Crown Court to two years and seven months in prison for publishing written material that incited racial hatred. Lucy Connolly was ordered to serve 40% of her 31-month sentence in prison before being released on licence.

His Honour Judge Melbourne Donald Inman KC retires as a Senior Circuit Judge with effect from 1 July 2025 – Updated 24th July 2025

HHJ Melbourne Inman KC told Birmingham Crown Court the sentence for these offences was intended to “punish and deter”.

His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC – Rex v Lucy Connolly
R-v-Lucy-Connolly – Sentencing Remarks HHJ Inman KCDownload

His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC on X !

HHJ Inman was shown on the List of Circuit Judges published on the Courts and Tribunal Judiciary website.

His Honour Judge Inman KCMidlands13-10-2014
List of Circuit Judges

HHJ Inman was shown on the Resident Judges list published on the Courts and Tribunal Judiciary website.

CircuitCourtJudgesDate of appointment
 MidlandBirmingham Crown CourtHHJ Melbourne Inman KC13-10-14
Resident Judges

His Honour Judge Inman was a Circuit Judge.

Companies House listed Melbourne Donald INMAN as a DIRECTOR of  CHIPPING CAMPDEN SCHOOL (07680770) with his occupation listed as High Court Judge.

On the Chipping Campden School Trustees page his bio states “I am a Senior Circuit Judge and have sat as a Judge for seventeen years.”

HHJ Inman – High Court Judge ? – Companies House – 18th October 2024

Update 23rd October 2024 – Following an email sent to HHJ Inman and the Lady Chief Justice on the 21st October 2024 asking for clarification, a CH01 Change of Particulars for Director was filed at Companies House on the 23rd October 2024. Mr Melbourne Donald Inman occupation was changed to “JUDICIARY”. Needless to say HHJ Inman and the Lady Chief Justice did not respond to my email.

HHJ Inman – Change of Occupation to Judiciary – Companies House – 23rd October 2024

(1) It is an offence for a person, without reasonable excuse, to—

(a) deliver or cause to be delivered to the registrar, for any purpose of the Companies Acts, a document that is misleading, false or deceptive in a material particular, or

(b) make to the registrar, for any purpose of the Companies Acts, a statement that is misleading, false or deceptive in a material particular.

Section 1112 of the Companies Act 2006

I did not believe that HHJ Melbourne Inman KC was a High Court Judge so his submission and entry at Companies House was false. I could not find any evidence that he was ever authorised to sit as a Deputy High Court Judge. Regardless of whether HHJ Inman was ever authorised to sit as a High Court Judge, his occupation is still a Circuit Judge (Senior).

Was HHJ Inman listing his occupation as a High Court Judge at Companies House an honest mistake or deliberate dishonesty (Fraud) ?

(1) A person is in breach of this section if he—

(a) dishonestly makes a false representation, and

(b )intends, by making the representation—

(i) to make a gain for himself or another, or

(ii) to cause loss to another or to expose another to a risk of loss.

(2) A representation is false if—

(a) it is untrue or misleading, and

(b) the person making it knows that it is, or might be, untrue or misleading

Fraud Act 2006 – Section 2 Fraud by false representation

The three key values which are central to the role of judicial office holders (JOHs) in England and Wales are:
• Independence
• Impartiality
• Integrity

If HHJ Melbourne Inman KC is not a High Court Judge then this would normally need to be referred to the Police, JCIO and Companies House to investigate. Can you Email a Judge ? No one is above the law.

The Judicial Press Office was contacted for comment but no response was received.

Authorisation to sit as a High Court Judge

HHJ Inman may have been authorised to sit as a High Court Judge by s9(1) of the Senior Courts Act as amended by the Crime and Courts Act 2013.

According to CRIMINAL PRACTICE DIRECTIONS 2015 DIVISION XII HHJ Inman should be addressed as “My Lord” in court.

Modes of Address B.1 – The following judges, when sitting in court, should be addressed as ‘My Lord’ or ‘My Lady’

(b) any Circuit Judge sitting as a judge of the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) or the High Court under section 9(1) of the Senior Courts Act 1981;
(d) any Senior Circuit Judge who is an Honorary Recorder.

Description B.3 – In cause lists, forms and orders members of the judiciary should be described as follows:

(a) Circuit Judges, as ‘His [or Her] Honour Judge A’. When the judge is sitting as a judge of the High Court under section 9(1) of the Senior Courts Act 1981, the words ‘sitting as a judge of the High Court’ should be added;

The Judicial Appointments Commission have published a Section 9(1) Policy which lays out the selection of persons for membership of the pool of judges who are authorised to act as judges of the High Court under s9(1) of the Senior Courts Act, as amended by the Crime and Courts Act 2013.

The Judicial Appointments Commission have also published a document Section 9(1) protocol. This protocol concerns the process by which authorisations for Recorders and Circuit Judges to sit as judges of the High Court under section 9(1) of the Senior Courts Act 1981 should take place.

Section 23 of The Courts Act 1971 covers a Circuit judge or Recorder sitting as High Court Judge.

(1) If requested to do so by or on behalf of the Lord Chancellor, a Circuit judge or Recorder shall sit as a judge of the High Court for the hearing of such case or cases or at such place and for such time as may be specified by or on behalf of the Lord Chancellor.

(2) So long as a Circuit judge or Recorder sits as a judge of the High Court in pursuance of a request under this section he shall be treated, subject to subsection (3) below, for all purposes as, and accordingly may perform any of the functions of, a puisne judge of the High Court.

(3) A Circuit judge or Recorder sitting as a judge of the High Court in pursuance of a request under this section shall not be treated as a judge of the High Court for the purpose of any provision made by or under any enactment and relating to—

(a) the appointment, retirement, removal or disqualification of judges of the High Court,
(b) the tenure of office and oaths to be taken by such judges, or
(c) the remuneration, allowances or pensions of such judges.

HHJ Inman KC (The Recorder of Birmingham) – 29.8K Views

“Publicity is the very soul of justice. . . . It keeps the judge himself, while trying, under trial….Where there is no publicity there is no justice”

Jeremy Bentham – Mr Justice Cobb: ‘Justice must be seen to be done’

Check out our articles on Dodgy Judges, Judges Salaries and Fees, Mr Justice Williams, His Honour Andrew Menary KC, His Honour Judge Guy Kearl, His Honour Now His Dishonour, His Honour Judge Michael Slater, His Honour Judge Jeremy William Richardson KC, His Honour Judge Martin Davis, HHJ Farquhar, HHJ Bedford, DDJ Nicholes, Do you Have to Bow to a Judge ?, Can you Email a Judge ?, Can you Criticise a Judge ? and the highly dubious Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

Latest Articles ↓

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Categories
Civil Justice Legal Professionals

What is a Costs Lawyer ?

Costs Lawyer

A costs lawyer in England and Wales is a legal professional specialised in handling matters related to the costs of legal proceedings. A Costs Lawyer has the legal right to conduct costs litigation and enter the court record on all issues specified between Parts 43 and 48 of the Civil Procedure Rules.  They also have Rights of Audience to attend court within costs proceedings.

The Register of Costs Lawyers includes the names of all Costs Lawyers who hold a 2024 practising certificate. It also shows the start date of their current practising certificate, their practice areas, any additional organisations in which they practice, and any disciplinary decisions or published decisions of the Legal Ombudsman.

You can Find a Costs Lawyer at the Association of Costs Lawyers (ACL). The ACL is the representative body for Costs Lawyers and promotes the interests of Costs Lawyers and lobbies on their behalf.

In order to qualify as a Costs Lawyer, you must:

  • have successfully completed the Costs Lawyer Qualification; and
  • have completed, or be currently undertaking, two years of Qualifying Experience.

The Costs Lawyer Qualification is a course of study in costs law and practice, delivered by a training provider that is accredited by the CLSB. You might be eligible for exemptions from certain aspects of the Costs Lawyer Qualification if you have completed relevant prior learning, such as a law degree or a professional training course.

Qualifying Experience is work undertaken in costs law and practice for a period of two years under the supervision of a suitably qualified person. This can be carried out before, during or after studying for the Costs Lawyer Qualification, subject to certain conditions.

How to become a Costs Lawyer – Costs Lawyer Standards Board
  • Role and Functionality: Costs lawyers primarily deal with the assessment, negotiation, and management of legal costs. This includes drafting bills of costs, preparing for detailed assessments where the court reviews the reasonableness and proportionality of legal costs, negotiating with opposing parties on cost issues, and advising on costs budgeting, which is crucial under the current civil procedure rules in England and Wales.
  • Regulation and Qualification: Costs lawyers are regulated by the Costs Lawyer Standards Board (CLSB), which sets and maintains professional conduct standards. To become a costs lawyer, one typically needs to complete the Costs Lawyer Qualification, although exemptions might apply for those with relevant qualifications or experience, including from overseas if recognized under European professional qualification rules. The CLSB regulates Costs Lawyers in England and Wales under the regulatory framework set out in the Legal Services Act 2007.
  • Professional Context: Unlike barristers who advocate in court or solicitors who handle a broader legal practice, costs lawyers focus narrowly on the financial aspects of legal cases. They might work independently, within law firms, or as part of specialised costs departments. Their expertise is vital in ensuring that clients receive or pay fair legal costs, which can be significant in complex litigation.

If you’re not satisfied with any aspect of the service you have received from your Costs Lawyer, the first thing to do is raise the matter with the Costs Lawyer involved, or with the firm in which they work. In many cases, an issue can be resolved by talking things through and agreeing a way forward.

Sometimes informal resolution will not solve the problem and you might want to make a more formal complaint. All Costs Lawyers are required to have effective procedures in place for the resolution of complaints. Your Costs Lawyer should have provided their complaints procedure to you at key junctures in your relationship. If you don’t have a copy of your Costs Lawyer’s complaints procedure, you can ask for it at any time.

If you want to make a formal complaint, set out in an email or letter why a problem has arisen and what you think the Costs Lawyer could do to resolve it. Refer to the Costs Lawyer’s complaints procedure and make it clear that you expect it to be followed. This way, everyone will understand that the complaint has moved beyond the informal resolution stage.

Complain about a Costs Lawyer – Costs Lawyer Standards Board

The existence of costs lawyers highlights the complexity of legal costs within the legal system of England and Wales, where costs can be a significant deterrent or incentive in pursuing or defending legal action.

Check out our related articles on Law Society, Law Commission, Solicitors, Solicitors Regulation Authority, Barristers, Bar Council of England and Wales, Bar Standards Board, Legal Ombudsman, Rule of Law, Open Justice and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Categories
Legal Professionals

What is a Legal Executive ?

Legal Executives

A Legal Executive in the UK is a qualified legal professional who provides specialist legal advice and representation, similar to solicitors but with a different training and qualification pathway.

As the legal sector evolves there’s a growing demand for a new kind of lawyer – a specialist lawyer. Trained differently and qualifying as specialists from the start, specialist lawyers are the future of law.

Thousands of highly skilled legal professionals are starting to transform the UK legal sector as CILEX Lawyers, and forging a rewarding career for themselves at the same time. You could become one of them.

Chartered Institute of Legal Executives
  • Role and Responsibilities: Legal Executives often specialise in particular areas of law, offering expert advice and services. They can work in private practice, for the government, or as in-house counsel for companies. Their role might involve legal drafting, client advice, court representation, and other legal services, though there are some restrictions on “reserved legal activities” unless they are under the supervision of a solicitor or in certain authorized settings.
  • Qualification Pathway: Unlike solicitors or barristers, becoming a Legal Executive involves qualifications through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx). This route includes the CILEX Professional Qualification (CPQ), which can be pursued by graduates or non-graduates, offering a less competitive and potentially less expensive path to becoming a qualified legal professional. The training is more practical and job-focused, often requiring part-time study alongside work.
  • Regulation and Status: Legal Executives are recognized under the Legal Services Act 2007, which outlines what activities they can perform. They must adhere to professional standards set by CILEX, including continuing professional development (CPD). They can become Chartered Legal Executives, which signifies their status and competence in legal practice.
  • Comparative Role: While Legal Executives can perform many of the same tasks as solicitors, there are distinctions, particularly in the scope of “reserved legal activities” like conducting litigation in court, which might require them to work under a solicitor’s supervision or within certain regulatory frameworks.
  • Professional Recognition: They are one of the three main branches of the legal profession in England and Wales, alongside solicitors and barristers, each having distinct roles but with overlapping functions in practice.

CILEX has over 17,000 members, made up of paralegals, CILEX Lawyers and other specialist legal professionals in England and Wales. Making Justice Better.

In 2012, the institute was granted a Royal Charter by the Privy Council on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The Charter recognises CILEX’s role as an Approved Regulator under the Legal Services Act 2007, a professional membership association and qualification Awarding Body.

About Us – Chartered Institute of Legal Executives

Check out our articles on Solicitors Regulation Authority, Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT), Mayo Wynne Baxter Solicitors, Law Society, Barristers, Direct Access Barristers, Bar Standards Board, Bar Council, Rule of Law, Gavin Howe, Eleanor Battie and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

Latest Articles ↓

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Categories
Law

Licensed Conveyancer

Licensed Conveyancer

A Licensed Conveyancer in the UK is a legal professional specialising in property law, particularly in the conveyancing process which involves transferring property from one party to another. Put simply, they deal with the legal and financial sides of buying and selling property and land.

  • Role and Responsibilities:
    • A Licensed Conveyancer manage all aspects of property transactions, from drafting contracts to conducting searches, ensuring all legal aspects are covered for buying, selling, remortgaging, or transferring property.
    • Unlike solicitors, who might handle a broader range of legal issues, Licensed Conveyancers focus primarily on property law, offering specialized service.
  • Qualifications and Training:
    • In the UK, to become a Licensed Conveyancer, one must complete the appropriate qualifications, which include the Level 4 and Level 6 Diplomas in Conveyancing Law and Practice, provided by recognized educational bodies and endorsed by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC).
    • After academic qualifications, candidates require 1200 hours of practical experience, which must be verified and can be obtained while working under a supervisor with a valid CLC licence.
    • After training, one must apply for a licence from the CLC, which evaluates whether the applicant is a “fit and proper person” to hold such a licence.
  • Regulation and Professional Bodies:
    • The CLC regulates Licensed Conveyancers in England and Wales. This body ensures adherence to professional standards, ethics, and continuing professional development (CPD), where conveyancers must undertake a certain amount of training annually to maintain their licence.
  • Benefits of Choosing a Licensed Conveyancer:
    • Specialisation: A Licensed Conveyancer bring deep expertise in conveyancing, potentially making the process smoother and quicker due to their focus.
    • Cost: Sometimes, Licensed Conveyancers might offer their services at a lower cost than general law firms or solicitors due to potentially lower overheads.
    • Community and Professional Support: Organizations like the Society of Licensed Conveyancers (SLC) provide networking, support, and resources, enhancing service quality through shared knowledge and best practices.
  • Online Competition:
    • It is a competitive market where conveyancers are keen to emphasise service quality and speed to attract clients.

When considering hiring a Licensed Conveyancer, it’s wise to check their credentials through the CLC “Find a Licensed Conveyancer“, understand their fee structure and get recommendations or reviews from previous clients for a well-rounded view of their service quality.

Check out the review of PM Property Lawyers.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

Latest Articles ↓

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

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Legal Analysis Legal Professionals

What is the Legal Ombudsman ?

Legal Ombudsman

The Legal Ombudsman is an independent service that handles complaints about legal services provided in England and Wales.

In order for the Legal Ombudsman to investigate your complaint, the service provider you used must be regulated. Examples of service providers they can look into are :-

The Legal Services Act 2007 and the Legal Ombudsman Scheme Rules set out very clear rules about the complaints they can and cannot accept.

  • Purpose: It investigates complaints about solicitors, legal executives, licensed conveyancers, and other regulated legal service providers. They aim to ensure that consumers receive fair treatment when using legal services.
  • Operation: The Legal Ombudsman was established under the Legal Services Act 2007. It took over from previous complaint handling bodies, aiming to provide a more unified and consumer-friendly approach to legal complaints.
  • Complaints Process:
    • Consumers must first complain directly to their legal service provider. If not satisfied with the response or if there’s no response within 8 weeks, they can then approach the Legal Ombudsman.
    • There are time limits for bringing a complaint; typically, it should be within six years from the date of the act or omission or three years from when you should have known there was cause for complaint, whichever is later.
    • The Legal Ombudsman Complaints Process is detailed in full on the Legal Ombudsman website.
  • Investigation and Resolution:
    • The ombudsman service investigates complaints, looking at the service quality rather than the legal advice’s correctness unless the advice is deemed unreasonable by common standards.
    • They can negotiate outcomes or make decisions that might include compensation, an apology, or changes in how the legal service is provided.
  • Limitations:
    • While they can look into service-related issues, for matters of legal advice negligence or where court action might be more appropriate, they might redirect complainants to other avenues like the courts, the Solicitors Regulation Authority or Bar Standards Board for potential misconduct.
  • Current Chief Ombudsman: As of February 2026, Phil Cain holds this position.
  • Public Sentiment and Observation: There’s a mix of discussion around legal officers and ombudsmen, but none specifically criticize or discuss the operational effectiveness of the Legal Ombudsman directly. However, general sentiment regarding legal oversight in the UK sometimes touches on independence and effectiveness of legal officers, which might indirectly reflect public expectations or criticisms of the ombudsman’s role in broader legal governance.

The Legal Ombudsman plays a crucial role in maintaining trust in the legal profession by offering a free, accessible pathway for resolving disputes, focusing on fairness, transparency, and consumer protection within legal services.

Check out our related articles on Law Society, Law Commission, Solicitors, Solicitors Regulation Authority, Barristers, Bar Council of England and Wales, Bar Standards Board, Rule of Law, Open Justice and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

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Judiciary

Judges Salaries and Fees

Judges Salaries and Fees
Judges Salaries and Fees

What is a salaried judge ?

Salaried judges in the UK are full-time judges who are employed by the government to preside over cases in various courts and tribunals. They are appointed by the King on the recommendation of the Lord Chancellor, following a rigorous selection process that includes an assessment of their legal knowledge, experience, and personal qualities.

The role of a salaried judge in the UK is to interpret and apply the law impartially and to make decisions in a fair and just manner. Salaried judges are responsible for a wide range of legal matters, including criminal cases, civil disputes, family law, and employment law, among others.

In carrying out their role, salaried judges are required to conduct themselves with the utmost integrity and to be impartial and independent in their decision-making. They must also be knowledgeable about the law and able to apply it in a way that is consistent with the principles of justice and fairness.

Salaried judges in the UK are appointed to various courts and tribunals, including the Magistrates’ Courts, County Courts, Crown Court, High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court. The type of cases they handle and the level of seniority they hold will depend on their experience and qualifications.

How much are salaried judges paid ?

In the United Kingdom, the salaries of judges are determined by the Senior Salaries Review Body (SSRB), an independent body that advises the government on the pay of senior public officials.

Judicial salaries and fees are published on the Judicial salaries and fees 2025 to 2026 page on the gov.uk website. The judicial salaries and fees were effective from the 1st April 2025.

The salaries of judges in the UK vary depending on their level of experience and jurisdiction. The following are the current starting salary for judges in England and Wales, as of April 2025:

The SSRB takes into account a range of factors when making recommendations on judicial pay, including changes in the cost of living, pay levels in other professions, and the need to recruit and retain high-quality judges. The SSRB also considers the pensions and benefits that are available to judges, as these are an important part of their overall compensation.

Judges in the UK are entitled to pensions through the Judicial Pensions Scheme. The scheme is based on a career-average earnings basis and provides a retirement income based on the judge’s length of service and average earnings during their career. Judges contribute between 7.35% and 14.5% of their salary to their pension, depending on their salary level.

Please also refer to the Judicial Pension Scheme for more information about pensions.

The salaries of judges in the UK are relatively high compared to other professions. However, this is balanced by the demanding nature of their work and the importance of their role in upholding the rule of law. Judges must be impartial and independent, and they must have the trust and confidence of the public in order to carry out their duties effectively.

What are fee paid judges and how much do they get paid ?

Fee-paid judges are part-time judges who are paid a fee for each day or half-day that they sit in court. They are also known as “recorder judges” or “deputy judges”.

Fee-paid judges are typically lawyers or other legal professionals who have expertise in a particular area of law and who are appointed to sit on a part-time basis in a variety of courts and tribunals.

The fees for fee-paid judges in the UK vary depending on the type of court or tribunal and the number of days worked.

As of April 2025, the daily fees for a Deputy District Judge is £648.70 or £667.30 with the London Weighting Fee as published in Judicial salaries and fees 2025 to 2026.

In addition to their fees, fee-paid judges are also entitled to claim expenses for travel, subsistence, and other reasonable costs associated with their work.

Fee-paid judges are an important part of the UK justice system and play a vital role in ensuring that the courts and tribunals have access to the expertise they need to make fair and impartial decisions.

While their fees may be lower than those of full-time judges, fee-paid judges provide an important service on a part-time basis and bring a valuable range of skills and experience to the courts and tribunals they serve.

What is a judge sitting in retirement and how much do they get paid ?

A judge sitting in retirement in the UK is a former full-time judge who has retired from their position but is still available to hear cases on a part-time basis. These judges are sometimes referred to as “retired judges” or “recalled judges”.

As of April 2024, the daily fees for a District Judge or Deputy District Judge sitting in retirement is £648.70 or £667.30 with the London Weighting Fee as published in Judicial Sitting in Retirement Fees 2025 to 2026.

The role of a judge sitting in retirement is to assist with the caseload of the court or tribunal they are appointed to and to provide additional judicial resources where needed. They may be appointed to sit in a specific court or tribunal or to act as a relief judge to cover for other judges who are unable to hear cases.

Retired judges are appointed by the Lord Chief Justice, the Senior President of Tribunals, or another relevant appointing authority. They are subject to the same standards of conduct as full-time judges and are required to adhere to the same ethical and professional standards.

The fees for retired judges vary depending on the type of court or tribunal and the number of days worked. Retired judges may be paid a daily fee, a fee per case, or a salary. They may also be entitled to claim expenses for travel, subsistence, and other reasonable costs associated with their work.

Overall, retired judges play an important role in the UK justice system by providing additional judicial resources and expertise where needed. They bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the courts and tribunals they serve in and help to ensure that the justice system operates efficiently and effectively.

Summary

The salaries of judges in the UK are determined by the Senior Salaries Review Body (SSRB) and vary depending on their level of experience and jurisdiction. Judges are also entitled to pensions through the Judicial Pensions Scheme, which is based on a career-average earnings basis.

While the salaries of judges are relatively high, they reflect the demanding nature of their work and the importance of their role in upholding the rule of law.

Check out our articles on Rule of Law, Open Justice, Lady Chief Justice, Dodgy Judges, Mr Justice Williams, His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Judge Richardson, His Honour Now His Dishonour, His Honour Judge Michael Slater, His Honour Judge Martin Davis, HHJ Farquhar, Do you Have to Bow to a Judge ?, Can you Email a Judge ?, Can you Criticise a Judge ? and the highly dubious Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

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Rogues

PM Property Lawyers

PM Law

Staff were told on the 2nd February 2026 that PM Law Limited was to shut, with several employees posting messages on Linkedin and updating their profiles with ‘open to work’ tags. The PM Law group includes more than 20 different practices spread across Yorkshire, Cumbria and Berkshire, with at least 55 fee-earners and dozens of support staff.

The SRA was not able to confirm whether or not the firm had closed, but posted an update yesterday afternoon in response to contacts from clients.

‘We have received calls that suggest Butterworths / PM Law Limited has not closed in the manner we would expect,’ said the regulator. ‘We will contact the partners to find out what is happening and to remind them of their professional obligations. If the firm is closing, we expect that those affected should be contacted soon.’

Staff in despair as 20-practice network shuts suddenly – Law Gazette 04/02/26

‘Clear your desk and go’: The overnight closure of PM Law

Pm Property Lawyers Limited on Review Solicitors has a rating of 4.1/5

PM Property Lawyers have a rating of 2.9 on Trustpilot…..

From Google Reviews of PM Property Lawyers “I work with children that are more organised than these people!“- “Utterly, utterly woeful.” – “Shocking” – “AVOID AT ALL COST!! Dreadful service!”

PM Property Lawyers – Google

PM Property Lawyers – A Useless and Incompetent Law Firm ?

PM Property Lawyers are experienced conveyancing solicitors based in Sheffield. We operate nationally, helping clients up and down the country buy, sell and remortgage their homes.

At PM Property Lawyers, we understand the significance of effective communication in the world of property transactions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or remortgaging, our dedicated team is here to streamline the conveyancing process for you.

Feel free to reach out to us with any queries, concerns, or to initiate your property transaction. Our experienced and friendly team is committed to providing top-notch service and guiding you through every step of the conveyancing journey.

PM Property Lawyers
PM Property Lawyers Bank Details

Call PM Property Law : 0330 056 2184

Email PM Property Law : [email protected]

Write to PM Property Law : PM Law, PM House, 250 Shepcote Lane, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S9 1TP

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Rule of Law - Open Justice - Policing By Consent