Categories
Judiciary

His Honour Andrew Menary KC

His Honour Judge Andrew Gwyn Menary is a Circuit Judge and the Recorder of Liverpool. He is the most senior judge at Liverpool Crown Court.

HHJ Menary was a judge involved in the trial and sentencing of the Southport rioters.

His Honour Menary presided over the Pre Trial Plea Hearing on the 13th February 2025 of the two brothers accused of seriously assaulting GMP officers at Manchester Airport.

Mr Amaaz denied two counts of causing actual bodily harm; one count of assaulting an emergency worker; and one of common assault.

Muhammad Amaad, 25, also from Rochdale, pleaded not guilty to one count of causing actual bodily harm.

Their trial will take place on June 30th and they were granted BAIL by Judge Menary until the trial

His Honour Judge Menary Pre Trial Plea Hearing – Manchester Airport Brothers

HHJ Menary claims to be a Christian in an article Hope at Christmas published on the judiciary website on the 21st December 2023.

In a BBC news article Judge tells of ‘unpleasant threats’ after riot sentencing, HHJ Menary is quoted as saying “There have been some twits online who have posted all sorts of daft things about me

Twits is surprising and unbecoming language from an honourable judge such as HHJ Menary.

His Honour Judge Menary, may therefore wish as a Christian, to read and reflect on Matthew 7:1-3

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged…For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you….Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?”

The judiciary, including Judge Menary, are quite rightly not immune to public criticism and comment. The rule of law applies to everyone and no one is above the law.

Criticising judges, was historically considered a form of contempt of court in England and Wales.

“Scandalising the judiciary (also referred to as scandalising the court or scandalising judges) is abolished as a form of contempt of court under the common law of England and Wales.”

Crime and Courts Act 2013 Section 33

You may want to check out the articles on Dodgy Judges and His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC (The Recorder of Birmingham).

His Honour Judge Menary KC Bio

Andrew Gwyn Menary, KC born in March 1959, was appointed a circuit judge, assigned to the Midland Circuit, based at Birmingham Crown Court, with effect from July 18, 2013. Judge Menary, at the time 54, was called to the Bar in 1982 and took silk in 2003. He was appointed as a recorder in 2002.

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

His Honour Judge Manary KCNorth West01-07-2013
List of Circuit Judges
CircuitCourtJudgesDate of appointment
 North WestLiverpool Combined Court CentreHis Honour Judge Menary KC09-04-19
Resident Judges

His Honour Judge Menary is a Circuit Judge.

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

Andrew Menary is listed at Companies House with 5 appointments.

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

HHJ Menary KC jailing men for violent disorder condemns ‘twisted ideology’ behind Southport rioting

Authorisation to sit as a High Court Judge

HHJ Menary 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 His Honour Judge Menary 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 BenthamMr Justice Cobb: ‘Justice must be seen to be done’

Image of HHJ Menary : Liverpool Echo

Check out our articles on Dodgy JudgesMr 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, 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 or any law enforcement agencies.


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What is Policing by Consent ? What is Two Tier Policing ?

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

‘Justice delayed is justice denied’

 William Ewart Gladstone

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

Mr Justice Goose

Mr Justice Goose is a British High Court judge in the King’s Bench Division. Sir Julian Nicholas Goose is known as The Honourable Mr Justice Goose and should be addressed in court as “My Lord”.

Mr Justice Julian Nicholas Goose, a respected figure in the British judiciary, has made significant contributions to the legal system through his roles as a High Court judge, a senior circuit judge, and the Presiding Judge of the Northern Circuit. Born on the 26th July 26 1961, Judge Goose’s legal career spans several decades, marked by landmark cases and judicial advancements.

Judge Julian Goose, honorary recorder of Sheffield, talks about the role of judges in the Crown Court

Early Life and Education

Julian Goose was educated at the prestigious Birkdale and Silverdale Schools. He pursued his legal education at the University of Leeds, where he earned an LLB. His early exposure to the rigors of legal study set the foundation for his future career in law. After completing his education, Goose was called to the bar at Lincoln’s Inn in 1984, a significant step that would lead him through various roles in the legal profession.

Legal Career

  • Recorder and Silk: Goose began his judicial career as a recorder in 1998, a position he held until 2013. He took silk in 2002, becoming a Queen’s Counsel, which is a testament to his expertise in law. His tenure as head of chambers at Zenith Chambers from 2004 to 2013 further underscored his leadership and legal acumen.
  • Circuit Judge: From 2013 to 2017, Goose served as a senior circuit judge and resident judge at Sheffield Combined Court Centre. During this period, he was also the honorary recorder of Sheffield, roles that involved extensive case management and judicial decision-making at the circuit level.
  • High Court Judge: In October 2017, Goose was appointed to the High Court, specifically assigned to the King’s Bench Division. This appointment came with the traditional knighthood, and he became known as The Honourable Mr Justice Goose. His work in the High Court has included some of the most high-profile criminal cases in the UK.
  • Presiding Judge: From January 2022, he has served as the Presiding Judge of the Northern Circuit, a role where he oversees judicial operations and ensures the effective administration of justice across the region. This position reflects his deep commitment to the justice system and his leadership within it.

Notable Cases

Mr Justice Goose has presided over several notable cases including:

  • Axel Rudakubana was sentenced on the 23rd Jan 2025 for the murder of three girls in Southport last July, and the attempted murder of 10 other people. “These proceedings are being conducted under my control Mr Rudakubana – do you understand? Not yours!”.
    Axel Rudakubana was jailed for a minimum of 52 years and told it was “highly likely” he will never be released.
Mr Justice Goose – Southport child killer Axel Rudakubana locked up for at least 52 years

Mr Justice Goose Sentencing Error
“The purpose of this hearing is to correct a technical error….I’m satisfied to amend the sentence to detention under His Majesty’s pleasure” – Mr Justice Goose on the 4th Feb 2025.

  • Ashley Dale’s Killers: In a case that garnered significant media attention, Mr Justice Goose sentenced four men convicted of murdering Ashley Dale. His sentences were broadcast, highlighting his role in delivering justice in complex and emotionally charged cases.
Judge Mr Justice Goose – Four jailed for at least 173 years for murder of Ashley Dale
  • Graham Mansfield: In a heart-wrenching scenario involving a failed suicide pact, Mr Justice Goose handed down a suspended sentence to Graham Mansfield for manslaughter. His judgement was based on compassionate legal interpretation, reflecting the complexities of human behaviour and law.
  • Other Significant Trials: Mr Justice Goose has also dealt with cases involving drug-related murders and other serious crimes, demonstrating his ability to navigate legal nuances with a fair and balanced approach.
Mr Justice Goose – Teens detained over fatal revenge stabbing of boy, 16
The Honourable Mr Justice Goose – ‘Body in woods’ killer jailed for at least 37 years

Contributions to the Law

Beyond his judicial duties, Mr Justice Goose was a member of the Sentencing Council from 2014 to 2020. This role allowed him to influence sentencing policies and practices, contributing to a more uniform and fair judicial system in England and Wales.

Personal Life

Married to Susan Bulmer since 1987, Mr Justice Goose is a father to two sons and one daughter, balancing his personal life with his demanding judicial career.

“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 BenthamMr Justice Cobb: ‘Justice must be seen to be done’

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

Image of Mr Justice Goose : BBC

Check out our articles on Dodgy JudgesMr 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 or any law enforcement agencies.


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What is Policing by Consent ? What is Two Tier Policing ?

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All Articles can be found in the Legal Blog or Sitemap.


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

‘Justice delayed is justice denied’

 William Ewart Gladstone

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 Law

Justice System and the Constitution in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has three separate legal systems; one each for England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. This system operates within a constitutional framework where the powers are distributed among three branches: the Judiciary, the Legislature (Parliament), and the Executive (Government).

This reflects its historical origins and the fact that both Scotland and Ireland, and later Northern Ireland, retained their own legal systems and traditions under the Acts of Union 1707 and 1800.

The Justice system and the Constitution – Courts and Tribunals Judiciary

1. The Judiciary

  • Role: Judges and magistrates interpret and apply the law, making decisions in both civil and criminal matters. They ensure laws are applied fairly and impartially.
  • Structure:
    • Magistrates’ Courts: Handle minor criminal cases and some civil matters.
    • Crown Courts: Deal with more serious criminal cases.
    • High Court: Handles complex civil cases, judicial reviews, and appeals.
    • Court of Appeal: Reviews decisions from lower courts.
    • Supreme Court: The highest court, deciding on significant legal issues and constitutional matters.
  • Independence: Judicial independence is protected by law to maintain impartiality. Judges are appointed through a process involving the Judicial Appointments Commission, and once appointed, they can only be removed for misconduct or incapacity.
  • Function in the Constitutional Framework: The Judiciary interprets statutes, develops common law, and can review the actions of the other branches for compliance with human rights and other legal principles.

2. The Legislature (Parliament)

  • Composition: Comprises the House of Commons (elected MPs), the House of Lords (appointed members, including life peers, bishops, and hereditary peers), and the Monarch (in practice, the role is mostly ceremonial).
  • Legislative Power: Parliament has the authority to create, amend, or repeal laws. This sovereignty is fundamental to the UK’s unwritten constitution.
  • Checks and Balances: While Parliament can pass any law, the judiciary can interpret these laws in ways that ensure they comply with broader legal principles, including human rights.
  • Interaction with Judiciary: Parliament can change laws in response to judicial interpretations or declarations of incompatibility under the Human Rights Act.

3. The Executive (Government)

  • Role: The government proposes legislation, administers justice through departments like the Ministry of Justice, and enforces laws through agencies like the police and prosecution services.
  • Accountability: The Executive is accountable to Parliament, which can scrutinize and censure government actions.
  • Influence on Judiciary: While the Executive has no direct control over judicial decisions, it influences the legal system through policy-making, resource allocation, and sometimes through the appointment to judicial positions.
  • Constitutional Conventions: These are unwritten practices like ministerial responsibility, which guide how the government interacts with the Judiciary and Parliament.

Constitutional Framework

  • Unwritten Constitution: The UK’s constitution is not codified but consists of statutes, court judgments, conventions, and treaties. This allows for flexibility but can also lead to ambiguities.
  • Rule of Law: A foundational principle where all are subject to the law, including government officials.
  • Common Law: Much of the law derives from judicial precedents, allowing for the legal system to evolve with society.

Challenges and Developments

  • Modernization: Efforts include digital transformation of court processes, enhancing access to justice, and reducing backlogs.
  • Human Rights: The Human Rights Act 1998 has integrated the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law, affecting how laws are interpreted and applied.
  • Judicial Review: This process checks the legality of government decisions, ensuring they do not overstep constitutional bounds.

Conclusion

The justice system in England and Wales, interacting within this tripartite structure, balances power to maintain democracy and the rule of law. The Judiciary’s independence, the legislative sovereignty of Parliament, and the administrative functions of the Government together form a dynamic yet stable constitutional environment. This interplay ensures that the system can adapt to societal changes while safeguarding individual rights and justice.

Check out our articles on Dodgy JudgesMr 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 Kearl KC, 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 or any law enforcement agencies.


Most Popular

What is Policing by Consent ? What is Two Tier Policing ?

Latest Articles

All Articles can be found in the Legal Blog or Sitemap.


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

‘Justice delayed is justice denied’

 William Ewart Gladstone

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 Professionals

His Honour Judge Guy Kearl KC

His Honour Judge Kearl is a Circuit Judge and the Recorder of Leeds. He is the most senior judge at Leeds Crown Court.

On the 5th of January 2025, Elon Musk re-posted on X an image/post of HHJ Kearl KC and commented “This clown looks like he bought that wig from the Party City liquidation sale 🤣🤣”

Elon Musk X post about HHJ Kearl KC (Recorder of Leeds)

Under the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States, Elon Musk is legally entitled to call HHJ Guy Kearl a clown.

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States

In the United Kingdom, Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998 allows for Freedom of expression. Yet again, Elon Musk is entitled to call His Honour Judge Kearl a clown.

“Everyone has 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. This Article shall not prevent States from requiring the licensing of broadcasting, television or cinema enterprises.”

Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998

The judiciary, including Judge Kearl, are quite rightly not immune to public criticism and comment. The rule of law applies to everyone and no one is above the law.

Criticising judges, was historically considered a form of contempt of court in England and Wales.

“Scandalising the judiciary (also referred to as scandalising the court or scandalising judges) is abolished as a form of contempt of court under the common law of England and Wales.”

Crime and Courts Act 2013 Section 33

Party City was a major retailer specialising in party supplies and decorations in the United States.

It is not the first time that Judge Guy Kearl attire has been mocked.

That’s a lovely wig you’ve got on there — do they make them in black?”

HHJ Kearl – The Sun

In 2018 Charles Bronson, who is the UK’s most notorious prisoner, also told Judge Kearl to hurry up so he didn’t miss his fish and chip supper.

You may want to check out the articles on Dodgy Judges and His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC (The Recorder of Birmingham).

His Honour Judge Kearl KC Bio

His Honour Judge Guy Alexander Kearl became a Circuit Judge on the North Eastern Circuit in 2011. Judge Kearl became a Senior Circuit Judge in 2018.

In 2001, HHJ Kearl acted as junior legal counsel for the Great Train robber Ronnie Biggs,

Mr Kearl, 52, was instructed as junior counsel for Biggs and supervised his return back to the UK from Brazil in May 2001 and his subsequent appearance in court.

He also drafted representations to the Home Office and Criminal Cases Review Commission prior to Biggs’s subsequent release on health grounds in 2009. Married with two children, Judge Kearl is an enthusiastic sportsman who ran marathons and is a keen skier and tennis player.

Ronnie Biggs’ barrister become judge on the North Eastern Circuit

Judge Kearl was called to the Bar in 1982 (Inns of Court unknown), and was appointed assistant Recorder in May 2000 and Recorder in July 2020. Two years later he took silk (Kings Counsel) .

Prior to becoming a judge, Guy Kearl KC, was head of St Pauls Chambers in Leeds.

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

His Honour Judge Kearl KCNorth East04-06-2018
List of Circuit Judges

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

CircuitCourtJudgesDate of appointment
 North EastLeeds Combined Court CentreHis Honour Judge Kearl KC04-06-18
Resident Judges

His Honour Judge Kearl is a Circuit Judge.

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

HHJ Kearl sentencing a self-styled paedophile hunter after he admitted racially abusing pro-Palestinian demonstrators in Leeds.

Authorisation to sit as a High Court Judge

HHJ Kearl 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 His Honour Judge Kearl 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 BenthamMr Justice Cobb: ‘Justice must be seen to be done’

Image of HHJ Kearl : Sky News Courts

Check out our articles on Dodgy JudgesMr Justice Williams, His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Andrew Menary KC, His Honour Judge Richardson, 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 or any law enforcement agencies.


Most Popular

What is Policing by Consent ? What is Two Tier Policing ?

Latest Articles

All Articles can be found in the Legal Blog or Sitemap.


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

‘Justice delayed is justice denied’

 William Ewart Gladstone

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

Mr Justice Williams

Mr Justice Williams is a British High Court judge in the Family Division. Sir David Basil Williams is known as The Honourable Mr Justice Williams and should be addressed in court as “My Lord”.

Mr Justice Williams was born on the 18th June 1964 in Bedford and was educated at Cedars Upper School in Leighton Buzzard. He completed his LLB at the University of Leicester and the BVC at the Inns of Court School of Law. From 1986 to 1989, he worked as an executive officer at the Legal Aid Board.

Mr Justice Williams was called to the bar at the Inner Temple in 1990, specialising in family law. He practiced from 3 Dr Johnson’s Buildings from 1990 to 2000 and then from 4 Paper Buildings until 2017.

David Williams took Silk in 2013, was appointed a Recorder in 2016 and a High Court Judge of the Family Division in 2017. Mr Justice Williams took the customary knighthood the same year.

Mr Justice Williams has been appointed as the Family Division Liaison Judge for the South Eastern Circuit (Kent, Surrey, Sussex & Thames Valley) with effect from 30 September 2020 where he will succeed Mr Justice Moor.

Appointment of Family Division Liaison Judges – June 2020

On the 4th September 2024 a New Family Presiding Judge Appointed for the South Eastern Circuit (Kent, Surrey, Sussex & Thames Valley) was announced.

The Lady Chief Justice, with the concurrence of the Lord Chancellor, has announced the appointment of a Family Presiding Judge.

Ms Justice Henke has been appointed for a period of four years, with effect from 1 October 2024, to the South Eastern Circuit (Kent, Surrey, Sussex & Thames Valley) where she will succeed Mr Justice Williams.   

Mr Justice Williams succeeded by Ms Justice Henke

Sara Sharif Case and Open Justice

Open justice is a fundamental principle which means that Justice should not only be done, but should manifestly and undoubtedly be seen to be done. Open justice ensures that the public can have confidence in the fairness and transparency of the legal system.

Sara Sharif judge who gave father custody will not be named

Mr Justice Williams, a Family High Court judge, has been widely criticised for his Reporting Restriction Order. The order prohibits the press from publishing “the name of any third parties referred to in the historic proceedings for the avoidance of doubt including social worker, guardian other named professionals and experts instructed in the proceedings and any judge who heard the historic proceedings”.

Banning the press from identifying judges is said to be unprecedented.

It has been reported that it was a senior judge at Guildford that presided over the case in 2019. The designated and most senior family judge at Guildford is/was HHJ Alison Raeside who was appointed on 01-01-19 and remains in office. The gov.uk website contradicts the judiciary website ““Judge Alison Raeside…and was the Designated Family Judge for Surrey from 2019 until 2024”. What happened to HHJ Raeside ? HHJ Raeside now confirmed as being involved.

Shocking on all levels…”Judges cannot be anonymous” – Art of Law

Mr Justice Williams judgment from a hearing on the 9th December 2024 was handed down remotely at 10.30am on the 20th December 2024. The judgment explains Mr Justice Williams reasoning behind his decision.

The High Court judge who controversially blocked the identification of professionals in the Sara Sharif case was accused of an ‘unjustified’ attack on the Press last night after suggesting that the media cannot be trusted to report fairly.

In an extraordinary broadside, Mr Justice Williams said he imposed an anonymity order to prevent a ‘virtual lynch mob’ because he did not believe the media could be trusted to report matters in a fair, accurate and responsible way.

Fury as Sara Sharif judge says the Press can’t be trusted to be fair as he controversially blocked the identification of professionals – Daily Mail

On the 19th December 2024, Media organisations including the Daily Mail won the right to challenge Mr Justice Williams’s order. The Master of the Rolls, who is a Court of Appeal judge, granted permission to appeal as the open justice arguments have a realistic prospect of success. The appeal over naming the judges will be heard on 14th and 15th January in front of three Court of Appeal judges.

It seems highly suspicious that Mr Justice Williams was succeeded by Ms Justice Henke on the 1st October 2024 (although this could be a coincidental 4 year appointment) and HHJ Alison Raeside, it appears is no longer the the designated and most senior family judge at Guildford.

Was it appropriate that Mr Justice Williams heard the case FD23P00425 which involved judges that reported to him as the Family Presiding Judge for the South East Circuit ?

Did Mr Justice Williams attempt a cover up for “his mates” in the South East Circuit ? Oh My Lord !

Update 24th Jan 2025 : Appeal won to name Sara Sharif’s family court judges

Update 31st Jan 2025 : Sara Sharif family court judges named after appealHer Honour Alison Raeside – who sat on most of the hearings – HHJ Peter Nathan and HHJ Sally Williams. HHJ Alison Raeside sat on the earliest hearings involving Sara, the last one, and most of the hearings in between.

Why open justice is NOT served by shoving the name of a judge under the carpet – “However, we can’t let Mr Justice Williams off the hook…..Mr Justice Williams may have had chivalrous motives”

Para 63 : I have, however, concluded that the judge was wrong.

Para 71 : In the circumstances of this case, the judge had no jurisdiction to anonymise the historic judges either on 9 December 2024 or thereafter. He was wrong to do so, and the Order must be varied accordingly.

Para 78 : The mistake the judge made was to think that he could properly trawl through his own experiences to create a case for anonymising the judges. He should not have done so.

Para 79 : It is not necessary to decide whether the judge’s inappropriate and unfair remarks about the press and the journalists amounted to actual or apparent bias. He undoubtedly behaved unfairly towards the journalists and Channel 4…..The judge lost sight of the importance of press scrutiny to the integrity of the justice system.

Para 80 : I would deprecate the judge’s use of anecdotal material and his own experiences to create a case for anonymising the judges.

IN THE COURT OF APPEAL OF ENGLAND AND WALES (CIVIL DIVISION) ON APPEAL FROM THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE FAMILY DIVISION Mr Justice Williams: [2024] EWHC 3330 (Fam) – Appeal Nos: CA-2024-002784 and CA-2025-000083 Case No: FD23P00425

Sussex Family Justice Board

Mr Justice Williams was listed as member of the Sussex Family Justice Board which is a highly dubious “family justice” cartel operating in Sussex. Mr Justice Williams membership was against the rules and incompatible with the independent position of the judiciary

Mr Justice Williams was the Family Division Liaison Judge for the South Eastern Circuit from September 2020 to September 2024 and was “the boss” of HHJ Farquhar, HHJ Bedford and other dubious judges in Sussex such as DDJ Nicholes.

The Lady Chief JusticeLord Chancellor, or President of the Family Division should shut down the Sussex Family Justice Board as it is an embarrassment to justice and the law.

Could Mr Justice Williams be Removed as High Court Judge ?

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

“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 BenthamMr Justice Cobb: ‘Justice must be seen to be done’

If Mr Justice Williams was party in an attempt a cover up for his judges, then in my opinion, he should be removed from office.

Both Houses of Parliament have the power to petition The King for the removal of a judge of the High Court or the Court of Appeal.

This power originates in the 1701 Act of Settlement and is now contained in section 11(3) of the Senior Courts Act 1981.

It has never had to be exercised in England and Wales. It has in fact only been exercised once, when Sir Jonah Barrington was removed from office as a judge of the Irish High Court of Admiralty in 1830 for corruption: he misappropriated funds due to litigants. No English High Court or Court of Appeal judge has ever been removed from office under these powers. Circuit and District Judges can be removed by the Lord Chancellor. However, they can only do so if the Lord Chief Justice agrees.

Judges and Parliament – HM Courts and Tribunal Judiciary

Image of Mr Justice Williams : avalon.red

Check out our articles on Dodgy JudgesMr Justice Goose, 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 or any law enforcement agencies.


Most Popular

What is Policing by Consent ? What is Two Tier Policing ?

Latest Articles

All Articles can be found in the Legal Blog or Sitemap.


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

‘Justice delayed is justice denied’

 William Ewart Gladstone

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 Analysis Legal Professionals

Is the UK Criminal Justice System Broken ?


The UK’s criminal justice system is facing significant delays, with some trials being postponed until as late as 2028. A Sky News investigation at Leicester Crown Court revealed a criminal justice system described as chaotic and ineffective, characterised by:

  • Delayed Trials: Victims and defendants are experiencing waits of up to 460 days, with some cases stretched into future years due to a lack of resources like courtrooms, judges, and barristers.
  • Systemic Issues: The backlog in the crown courts is growing weekly. This delay is attributed to insufficient courtrooms, with around 15% to 20% remaining unused daily due to staffing shortages, alongside an increase in charges by the police and early releases from prisons due to overcrowding.
  • Professional Frustration: Barristers are moving away from criminal law to other, less chaotic areas of legal practice. This exodus is partly due to the system’s inefficiencies along with court staff shortages and increasing case volumes compounding the crisis.
  • Public and Legal Outcry: There’s a strong sentiment among legal professionals and the public that justice is being denied due to these delays. The system is criticized for not functioning effectively, with the Criminal Bar Association chair, Mary Prior KC, highlighting the broken nature of the current setup.
  • Infrastructure Problems: The physical state of court buildings is deteriorating, and even basic facilities like computer systems for tracking cases are unreliable, exacerbating the delays.

The judge then takes the unusual step of addressing the crisis to us in open court.

“I have cases day in, day out that I am having put over. It can be years, if you lose a date in 2025 it is 2026.

“All these cases you have to decide who gets priority… fraud cases are being put on the back burner. In my position I have cases put over for months, even years.”

As a rule, judges don’t do interviews, so this is as close as we’ll get to hearing what he thinks.

He is clearly exasperated and remarkably candid: “I don’t know where things are going to go but they aren’t going to get any better,” he says.

Inside the UK’s ‘wild west’ court system where people may have to wait until 2028 for justice to take place – Sky News
‘Justice delayed is justice denied’: UK’s broken legal system

Read the full Sky News article Inside the UK’s ‘wild west’ court system where people may have to wait until 2028 for justice to take place.

“If you think about it, if we don’t have a functioning criminal justice system, we are in a position where you have people roaming the streets who are committing serious offences and there’s no retribution for that.

People aren’t getting justice quick enough and if they’re not… what’s the point in any of it? People will start to give up.”

Barrister Annabel Lenton – Sky News

This situation in the UK’s criminal justice system underscores an urgent need for investment and reform to ensure timely and effective justice.

Check out our related articles on The Courts of England and Wales, Rule of Law, Innocent until Proven GuiltyOpen Justice, R v Sussex Justices, Lady Chief Justice and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

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Solicitor General

The Solicitor General is the second law officer of the Crown in the United Kingdom, after the Attorney General. The role of the Solicitor General is to assist the Attorney General in their legal duties and responsibilities, and to act as their deputy in their absence.

The Solicitor General is also responsible for representing the government in court, and for providing legal advice to government departments and agencies. In addition, the Solicitor General works closely with the Attorney General on a range of legal issues, including the development of legal policy and the administration of justice.

Lucy Rigby MP was appointed Solicitor General on Monday 2 December 2024.

The Solicitor General is appointed by the monarch on the advice of the Prime Minister, and is usually a member of the government. The Solicitor General is also a Member of Parliament and can participate in parliamentary debates and proceedings.

Previous Solicitor General

  1. Sarah Sackman KC MP 2024 to 2024
  2. Robert Courts KC 2023 to 2024
  3. The Rt Hon Michael Tomlinson KC 2022 to 2023
  4. Edward Timpson CBE KC 2022 to 2022
  5. The Rt Hon Alex Chalk KC 2021 to 2022
  6. The Rt Hon Michael Ellis KC 2021 to 2021
  7. The Rt Hon Lucy Frazer KC 2021 to 2021
  8. The Rt Hon Michael Ellis KC 2019 to 2021
  9. The Rt Hon Lucy Frazer KC 2019 to 2019
  10. The Rt Hon Robert Buckland KC 2014 to 2019
  11. The Rt Hon Sir Oliver Heald KC 2012 to 2014
  12. Sir Edward Garnier KC 2010 to 2012

Solicitor General Salary

The Solicitor General is entitled to a salary of £62,368 but claims £57,962 according to Salaries of members of His Majesty’s Government: April 2022 (HTML)

This is addition to the basic annual salary for an MP from 1 April 2024 which is £91,346 according to Pay and expenses for MPs.

Check out our articles on  R v Sussex Justices, Rule of Law, Lady Chief Justice, Government Legal Department, Attorney General, Policing by Consent and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

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 William Ewart Gladstone

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What is is Sub Judice ?

Sub judice is a Latin term meaning “under judgment.” In legal contexts, it refers to a case or matter that is currently under judicial consideration and has not yet been decided. Here are some key points:

  • Legal Principle: It’s a principle in many legal systems that matters under court consideration should not be publicly commented on or discussed in a way that could prejudice the judicial proceedings.
  • Purpose: The purpose is to prevent any influence on the judicial process, ensuring fairness and impartiality in legal outcomes. This includes avoiding prejudicial publicity or influencing potential jurors, witnesses, or even the judge or judges involved.
  • Restrictions:
    • In some jurisdictions, there might be strict rules prohibiting publication or discussion of certain details of the case while it is sub judice.
    • This can apply to media, individuals, and sometimes even legislative bodies discussing the case in detail.
  • Application:
    • In common law countries like the UK, it’s often cited in contempt of court laws where discussing a case publicly might be seen as contempt if it could influence the case’s outcome.
    • The rule helps maintain the integrity of the judicial process by ensuring decisions are based purely on evidence and law, not on public opinion or external commentary.
    • This principle underscores the separation between judicial proceedings and public or political influence, aiming for an unbiased legal process.

The sub judice rule prevents MPs or Lords from referring to a current or impending court case. Although the House is entitled under parliamentary privilege to discuss any subject, sub judice applies to avoid the House from debating a subject and possibly influencing the legal outcome of a case. 

4.68 The privilege of freedom of speech in Parliament places a corresponding duty on members to use the freedom responsibly. This is the basis of the sub judice rule. Under the rule both Houses abstain from discussing the merits of disputes about to be tried and decided in the courts of law.

4.69 The Joint Committee on Parliamentary Privilege recommended that the two Houses should adopt a resolution on sub judice set out in the committee’s report.[155] The House of Lords did this on 11 May 2000. The resolution is as follows:

“That, subject to the discretion of the Lord Speaker,[156] and to the right of the House to legislate on any matter or to discuss any delegated legislation, the House in all its proceedings (including proceedings of committees of the House) shall apply the following rules on matters sub judice:

(1) Cases in which proceedings are active in United Kingdom courts shall not be referred to in any motion, debate or question.

(a) (i) Criminal proceedings are active when a charge has been made or a summons to appear has been issued, or, in Scotland, a warrant to cite has been granted.
(ii) Criminal proceedings cease to be active when they are concluded by a verdict and sentence or discontinuance, or, in cases dealt with by courts martial, after the conclusion of the mandatory post-trial review.

(b) (i) Civil proceedings are active when arrangements for the hearing, such as setting down a case for trial, have been made, until the proceedings are ended by judgment or discontinuance.

(ii) Any application made in or for the purposes of any civil proceedings shall be treated as a distinct proceeding.

(c) Appellate proceedings, whether criminal or civil, are active from the time when they are commenced by application for leave to appeal or by notice of appeal until ended by judgment or discontinuance.

But where a ministerial decision is in question, or in the opinion of the Lord Speaker a case concerns issues of national importance such as the economy, public order or the essential services, reference to the issues or the case may be made in motions, debates or questions.

(2) Specific matters which the House has expressly referred to any judicial body for decision and report shall not be referred to in any motion, debate or question, from the time when the Resolution of the House is passed, until the report is laid before the House.

(3) For the purposes of this Resolution—

(a) Matters before Coroners Courts or Fatal Accident Inquiries shall be treated as matters within paragraph (1)(a); and
(b) “Question” includes a supplementary question.

4.70 The House has agreed that the practice governing motions and questions relating to matters sub judice should be similar in both Houses of Parliament.[157] It is desirable that each House should be in the same position to debate a sub judice matter when the circumstances warrant it.

4.71 The rules governing sub judice do not apply to bills, Measures or delegated legislation or to proceedings on them. Nor do they apply to matters being considered by departmental inquiries and the like; but it is recognised that Parliament should not generally intervene in matters where the decision has been delegated to others by Parliament itself.

4.72 A case is deemed to be sub judice from the moment a petition for leave to appeal is presented to the House of Lords.[158]

4.73 The Lord Speaker must be given at least 24 hours’ notice of any proposal to refer to a matter which is sub judice. The exercise of the Speaker’s discretion may not be challenged in the House.[159]

Companion to the Standing Orders and guide to the Proceedings of the House of Lords

Check out our related articles on What is a Non Crime Hate Incident ?, What is a Cover Up ?, Rule of Law, Open Justice, Policing by Consent, Innocent until Proven Guilty, R v Sussex Justices and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

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 William Ewart Gladstone

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What is a High Sheriff ?

The “High Sheriff” is an independent non-political Royal appointment for a single year only. There are 55 High Sheriffs serving the counties of England and Wales. The post is unpaid (except for a nominal court attendance allowance), and the general expenses of the office are borne personally by the holder.

There is a High Sheriff for each county in England and Wales, although the Shrieval Counties (“Shrieval” means anything to do with a Sheriff) no longer align with administrative areas, this creates a mix between the traditional counties and more recent local authority areas.

High Sheriffs – The Privy Council
  1. Historical Role: The office dates back to Anglo-Saxon times, originally appointed to enforce law and order in a shire (county). The ‘Shire Reeve’ was responsible to the king for the maintenance of law and order within the shire, or county, and for the collection and return of taxes due to the Crown. Of the 63 clauses in the Magna Carta of 1215, no less than 27 relate to the role of the Sheriff and from 1254 the High Sheriff supervised the election to Parliament of two Knights of the Shire. Over centuries, the role has evolved significantly.
  2. Legislation: The Sheriffs’ Declaration Act 1835 and Sheriffs Act 1887.
  3. Current Duties: Today, the High Sheriff has mostly ceremonial and social responsibilities rather than law enforcement duties:
  • To lend active support to the principal organs of the Constitution within their county – the Royal Family, the Judiciary, the Police and other law enforcement agencies, the emergency services, local authorities, and church and faith groups
  • To take an active part in supporting and promoting the voluntary sector and giving all possible encouragement to the voluntary organisations within a County, particularly those involved with crime reduction and social cohesion.
  • To ensure the welfare of visiting High Court Judges, to attend on them at Court and to offer them hospitality
  • To make a meaningful contribution to the High Sheriff’s County during the year of Office and to uphold and enhance the ancient Office of High Sheriff 
  • To support the Lord-Lieutenant on royal visits and on other occasions as appropriate
  1. Appointment: High Sheriffs are appointed annually but serve in a different year from when they are nominated due to a unique system.

It is the responsibility of each High Sheriff to provide the names of people suitable to serve in the future. These names are added to the list of Sheriffs, and every November at a ceremony in the High Court the Lord Chief Justice and three other judges formally add as many new names for each county as are needed to ensure that there are Sheriffs in nomination for each of the next three years. A Sheriff needs to own property in the county for which he or she is nominated. The following March The King, at a meeting of the Privy Council, formally selects one of the three nominated Sheriffs to serve for the next twelve months by literally pricking a hole through his or her name on the List with a bodkin.

High Sheriffs – The Privy Council
  1. Title: The title is “High Sheriff”, not “Sheriff”, which distinguishes it from historical or fictional roles like the American sheriff or the ancient English sheriff with broader law enforcement powers.
  2. Symbolism: High Sheriffs have traditional symbols like the Badge of Office and might carry a ceremonial sword, which represents their historical role in maintaining law and order.

The High Sheriffs’ Association of England and Wales was founded in 1971 to represent the interests of and give assistance to High Sheriffs in England and Wales. 

The position Of High Sheriff maintains a link to the past, preserving traditions while adapting to serve modern community needs. High Sheriffs often work to enhance community cohesion and support local law enforcement and emergency services in non-executive capacities.

Check out our articles on Policing, Police News, Policing by Consent, Two Tiered Policing, Wasting Police Time, Police and Crime Commissioner, Chief Constable Jo Shiner and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

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 William Ewart Gladstone

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Circuit Judges

A Circuit Judge in England and Wales is a judge who presides over cases in the Crown Court and County Courts.

  1. Hierarchy: They rank below High Court Judges but above District Judges and Recorders in the judicial hierarchy.
  2. Appointments: Circuit Judges are appointed by the King on the recommendation of the Lord Chancellor, based on advice from the Judicial Appointments Commission. They need to have substantial legal experience, typically at least 10 years, before being considered for the position.
  3. Roles:
    • Crown Court: They handle criminal cases, which might include everything from minor offenses to more serious crimes like murder or rape, though the most complex cases might be reserved for High Court Judges.
    • County Court: They deal with civil cases, which can range from small claims to more significant disputes concerning contracts, personal injury, and family law (like divorce or child custody).
  4. Jurisdiction: They have jurisdiction throughout England and Wales, but they are generally assigned to one of the six circuits (North Eastern, Northern, South Eastern, Midland and Oxford, Wales and Chester, Western Circuit).
  5. Style: They are referred to as “His/Her Honour Judge [Surname]” in court and formal settings.
  6. Duties: Apart from hearing cases, they might also sit on appeal courts for decisions from lower courts or tribunals, participate in judicial training, and contribute to the administration of justice in various capacities.

Bands worn over a violet robe and a short wig.
When hearing criminal cases, circuit judges wear a red tippet (sash) over the left shoulder.
When dealing with civil business, circuit judges dress as in criminal cases, but with a lilac tippet and without a wig or bands, wing collar or collarette.
On some occasions – when dealing with certain types of High Court business, or when sitting at the Central Criminal Court (Old Bailey) in London – circuit judges wear a short wig and black silk gown over a court coat and/or waistcoat.

Court Working Dress – Circuit Judge

Check out our articles on Dodgy JudgesHis Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC, 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.

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

‘Justice delayed is justice denied’

 William Ewart Gladstone

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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