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Legal Professionals

Kings Counsel (KC)

kings counsel

The King’s Counsel (KC) is a prestigious title awarded to senior barristers and advocates who have rights of audience in the higher courts of England and Wales who have also demonstrated the competencies in the Competency Framework to a standard of excellence.

King’s Counsel are appointed from amongst practising advocates – both barristers and solicitors.

The selection process for KC’s is rigorous and selective, and candidates must meet specific criteria to be eligible for consideration.

In this article, we will examine the history, qualifications, and benefits of being appointed as a King’s Counsel in the UK, as well as the process of recommendation and appointment.

History of King’s Counsel

The title of King’s Counsel (KC) has a long and rich history in the legal profession in the UK. It was first introduced in the 16th century during the reign of King Elizabeth I. At that time, the title was conferred upon lawyers who were appointed by the monarch to act as legal advisors and advocates in court.

In the 19th century, the title of King’s Counsel became more closely associated with the legal profession. It was recognized as a mark of excellence in the field, and those who were appointed to the position were seen as being among the most skilled and experienced lawyers in the country.

Qualifications for King’s Counsel

To be considered for appointment as a King’s Counsel, a lawyer must meet a strict set of criteria.

First and foremost, they must have a minimum of ten years’ experience practicing law, and they must have demonstrated exceptional skill and expertise in their field.

They must also have a strong record of advocacy and be able to demonstrate that they have achieved outstanding results for their clients.

In addition to these qualifications, a lawyer must also be nominated for the position by the Lord Chancellor.

The Lord Chancellor invites nominations from a range of sources, including judges, other senior lawyers, and professional bodies such as the Bar Council and Law Society.

Once a nomination has been made, the candidate must submit an application that includes detailed information about their legal career and achievements.

This will typically include information on their education, professional experience, notable cases, and any other relevant information that demonstrates their skill and expertise in the field of law.

Benefits of being a King’s Counsel

Being appointed as a King’s Counsel is a significant achievement in the legal profession. It is a mark of excellence that is recognized both within the legal profession and outside of it. It is also a title that comes with a number of benefits.

One of the main benefits of being a King’s Counsel is that it provides lawyers with increased opportunities to work on high-profile and complex cases. As one of the most respected titles in the legal profession, those who hold the position of King’s Counsel are often sought out by clients who are looking for the best possible representation.

Another benefit of being a King’s Counsel is that it can lead to increased earnings. Lawyers who hold this title are often able to command higher fees for their services, as clients are willing to pay a premium for the expertise and experience that comes with the position.

In addition to these benefits, being a King’s Counsel is also an opportunity to give back to the legal profession. Those who hold this title are often involved in mentoring and training younger lawyers, helping to ensure that the next generation of legal professionals is well-prepared to take on the challenges of the profession.

Recommendation and Appointment Process

The process of appointing a KC in the UK is overseen by the King’s Counsel Appointments (KCA) committee. The KCA is an independent body that is responsible for recommending candidates for appointment as KCs to the Lord Chancellor.

The process typically begins with nominations made by judges, other senior lawyers, and professional bodies such as the Bar Council and Law Society. The Lord Chancellor may also invite nominations from other sources, including members of the public.

Once a nomination has been made, the candidate must submit an application that includes detailed information about their legal career and achievements. The KCA
committee will then review the application and consider a range of factors when making their recommendation, including the candidate’s skill, experience, and professional conduct.

The KCA also considers diversity and inclusion when making their recommendations. They are committed to ensuring that the legal profession is representative of the communities it serves, and they actively seek out candidates from a diverse range of backgrounds.

Once the KCA has made their recommendation, it is then up to the Lord Chancellor to make the final decision on whether to appoint the candidate as a KC. The Lord Chancellor typically follows the recommendation of the KCA, but they are not bound to do so.

Complaints

King’s Counsel Appointments does not deal with complaints about KCs. Those are dealt with by the Legal Ombudsman; or by the Bar Standards Board for barristers or the Solicitors Regulations Authority for solicitor KCs.

Being appointed as a King’s Counsel is a significant achievement in the legal profession in the UK. It is a title that is recognized both within the legal profession and outside of it, and it comes with a range of benefits.

Overall, the appointment of KCs is a rigorous and selective process that ensures that only the most skilled and experienced lawyers in the UK are awarded this prestigious title.

It is a mark of excellence that is highly respected within the legal profession and serves as a testament to a lawyer’s skill and expertise in the practice of law.

Read the reviews of Junior Sussex Barrister Gavin Howe and Legal 500 Junior Barrister Eleanor Battie. Neither who, in my opinion, are ever likely to receive KC….

“He is awful, underhanded and should not be practising law!”

“She is a one-woman legal A Team”

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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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

Bar Standards Board Justice !

Bar Standards Board Justice
Bar Standards Board Justice !

The Bar Standards Board published disciplinary findings against barrister Mr Thomas David Davidson on the 21st November 2023.

Thomas Davidson, a practising barrister, behaved in a way which was likely to diminish the trust and confidence which the public places in him or in the profession, in that, on 7 February 2022 at Salisbury Magistrates Court, following the conclusion of a trial during which he had represented a defendant before a Bench consisting of three Lay Magistrates, and after the Chairperson raised with him the issue of his having used a German accent during the proceedings and telling him that this conduct had been inappropriate, Mr Davidson looked at the Bench and said “Jawohl” at the same time as raising a hand in a Nazi salute, which conduct was seriously offensive and discreditable.

For professional misconduct contrary to Core Duty 5 (CD5) of the Code of Conduct of the Bar of England and Wales, Thomas Davidson was reprimanded and fined £250 with costs of £1,750.00.

The work that the Bar Standards Board do is governed by the Legal Services Act 2007 (the Act) as well as a number of other statutes.

The BSB Handbook contains the rules about how barristers must behave and work. Version 5.0 of the BSB Handbook came into force on the 21st May 2024.

This is hardly a punishment or deterrent by the Bar Standards Board. Where is the justice in this pathetic reprimand ?

Why was he not dealt with by the magistrates for contempt of court ?

•    setting the education and training requirements for becoming a barrister;
•    setting continuing training requirements to ensure that barristers’ skills are maintained throughout their careers;
•    setting standards of conduct for barristers;
•    authorising organisations that focus on advocacy, litigation, and specialist legal advice;
•    monitoring the service provided by barristers and the organisations we authorise to ensure they meet our requirements; and
•    considering reported concerns about barristers and the organisations we authorise and taking enforcement or other action where appropriate.

Bar Standards Board Responsibilities

Check out our articles on Barristers, Gavin Howe, Eleanor Battie, Direct Access Barristers, Inns of Court, Bar Standards Board, Bar Council, Law Society, Legal Services Board, Rule of Law, Lincoln’s Inn 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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Judiciary Legal Professionals

His Honour Judge Michael Slater

Circuit Judge HHJ

His Honour Judge Michael Slater, fell asleep during a trial and was subsequently investigated by the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office who issued a disciplinary statement on the 29th August 2023.

HHJ Michael Slater, a barrister, was appointed to be a circuit judge in November 2016 and deployed to the north eastern circuit, based at Sheffield Combined Court.

STATEMENT FROM THE JUDICIAL CONDUCT
INVESTIGATIONS OFFICE

His Honour Judge Michael Slater

A spokesperson for the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office said:

The Lord Chief Justice, with the Lord Chancellor’s agreement, has issued His Honour Judge Michael Slater with formal advice for misconduct after he was found to have fallen asleep in court during a hearing.

The Guide to Judicial Conduct reminds judges that they are expected to display diligence and care in the discharge of their duties. Judges are expected to ensure that their conduct maintains and enhances public confidence in the judiciary.

Following an investigation carried out under the Judicial Conduct (Judicial and other office holders) Rules 2014, a nominated judge found that HHJ Slater’s behaviour amounted to misconduct and recommended that he should be issued with formal advice.

In making their recommendation, the nominated judge took into account that HHJ Slater had accepted the allegation and apologised, that he was under a great deal of pressure dealing with an unremitting workload, and that his actions had not derailed the trial. They also took into account that HHJ Slater addressed the matter with parties in court and offered them a retrial, though neither party chose to take this up.

Having considered the facts of the case, the Lord Chief Justice and Lord Chancellor agreed with the nominated judge that HHJ Slater’s actions amounted to judicial misconduct and that the appropriate disciplinary sanction is formal advice.

STATEMENT FROM THE JUDICIAL CONDUCT INVESTIGATIONS OFFICE  His Honour Judge Michael Slater
His Honour Judge SlaterNorth East15-11-2016
His Honour Judge Slater Appointment date

According to a Law Gazette article Judge with ‘unremitting workload’ fell asleep during trial published on the 30th August 2023, HHJ Slater fell asleep during a trial. No details were given by the JCIO of what the case was about, when it was heard or for how long the judge fell asleep.

A list of all Circuit Judges is published on the Courts and Tribunal Judiciary website.

“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, His Honour Now His Dishonour, 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.

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Judiciary Legal Professionals

His Honour Now His Dishonour

Circuit Judge HHJ

Andrew Easteal formerly known as His Honour Andrew Easteal has been removed from office by the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office (JCIO) for misconduct after he ‘deliberately’ deleted data which was of police interest. 

The Lord Chancellor, with the Lord Chief Justice’s agreement, has removed His Honour Judge Andrew Easteal from office for misconduct.

Judicial office-holders are expected to strive to ensure that their conduct, both in and out of court, maintains and enhances the confidence of the public, the legal profession, and litigants, in their personal impartiality and that of the judiciary. They are also expected to put the obligations of judicial office above personal interests.

Following an investigation carried out under the Judicial Conduct (Judicial and other office holders) Rules 2014 by a senior judge appointed by the Lord Chief Justice, Judge Easteal was found to have deliberately deleted data in the knowledge that it was of interest to police officers carrying out a criminal investigation. The judge denied that his intention was to frustrate the criminal investigation.

Having considered the mitigation offered by Judge Easteal, the Lord Chief Justice and Lord Chancellor agreed with the investigating judge’s finding that this was misconduct of the utmost seriousness, for which the judge should be removed from office.

STATEMENT FROM THE JUDICIAL CONDUCT INVESTIGATIONS OFFICE

Despite being removed from Office, Andrew Easteal is still on the List of Circuit Judges on the Judiciary website. This is several hours after the announcement.

Clearly not all judges are as honourable as they seem !

“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 Mr Justice Williams, His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Judge Jeremy Richardson KC, His Honour Judge Guy Kearl, HHJ Farquhar, HHJ Bedford, Dodgy Judges, Can you Criticise a Judge ?, Do you Have to Bow to a Judge ?, Can you Email a Judge ?, Can you Criticise a Judge ? 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.

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Judiciary Legal Professionals

HHJ Stuart Farquhar

hhj stuart farquhar

HHJ Farquhar was appointed as a Deputy District Judge in 1999, as a District Judge in 2005 and as a Recorder in 2009.

Stuart Alastair Farquhar was appointed a circuit judge, assigned to the South Eastern Circuit, based at Brighton County Court, with effect from October 9th 2013. Judge Farquhar who was 51 at the time, was called to the Bar (I) in 1985. Judge Farquhar was born on the 4th June 1962.

Stuart Alastair Farquhar is called His Honour Judge Farquhar or abbreviated to HHJ Farquhar. In Court he is addressed as Your Honour.

HHJ Farquhar is the Lead Financial Remedies Court (FRC) Judge for Kent, Surrey and Sussex. From KFC to the top of the roost in Sussex !

“I have no family connection to lawyers; father was an engineer and mother looked after me and my two brothers. Attended state schools.

1980-1983 Manchester University

1983-1984 Worked at solicitors during the day and KFC at night & weekends to pay for Bar

School
1984-1985 Bar School

1985-2005 Barrister in Nottingham (after pupillage in London where I was not offered tenancy)
Started doing all types of work but after about five years began to specialise in Family work and then just in money cases on divorce

2005-2013 District Judge in Cambridgeshire – Family and Civil jurisdiction

2013-present Circuit Judge in Brighton – Family Court and Court of Protection

Interests:

Supporting AFC Wimbledon, walking the dog in the rain (other weather conditions are accepted), preferably near pubs with good real ale.

Married: my wife works as an advisor for a Carers Support Organisation.
Two children, neither following a legal career (having seen the impact upon me!)”

University of Brighton Law Careers Question Time 2018

Sussex Family Justice Board Membership

HHJ Stuart Farquhar was listed (up to 18th April 2023) as a board member of the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Website (SFJB), along with a number of Senior Sussex Judges.

HHJ Farquhar was previously listed as a SFJB member in a SFJB document SFJB-List-of-Members.docx dated September 2018. HHJ Farquhar appears to have been a SFJB board member for at least 5 years !

“The judge is not a member of the board as to be so would be incompatible with the independent position of the judiciary.”

Judiciary and the local justice system

A Google Search on the 3rd April 2023 returned the following which clearly shows HHJ Farquhar as a board member :-

Google Search 3rd April 2023

A Bing Search on the 3rd April 2023 returned the following which clearly shows HHJ Farquhar as a board member :-

Bing Search 3rd April 2023

The Sussex Family Justice Board website showed :-

Sussex Family Justice Board Members 3rd April 2023
Sussex Family Justice Board Judicial Board Members 3rd April 2023

The Sussex Family Justice Board website, according to their public RSS Feed, was updated on the 18th April 2023 at 20:37.

Sussex Family Justice Board (SFJB) RSS Feed XML <lastBuildDate>Tue, 18 Apr 2023 20:37:32 +0000</lastBuildDate>

HHJ Farquhar, HHJ Lusty and DJ Pollard have mysteriously been removed as board members. Is this a cynical attempt at a cover up ? Who removed them and why ?

Sussex Family Justice Board Judicial Board Members as of 22nd April 2023
Sussex Family Justice Board Judicial Board Members as of 22nd April 2023
SFJB-List-of-Members.docx dated September 2018
sfjb-board-members-september-2018Download
  • HHJ Farquhar has denied he is a member of the SFJB and that he was ever invited to join.
  • HHJ Farquhar claims he did not know that he was listed on the SFJB website as a board member.
  • HHJ Farquhar stated that he had covered for His Honour Judge Robin Bedford at several SFJB events. He also confirmed that HHJ Bedford, The Designated and Most Senior Family Judge in Sussex, was definitely a member of the board.
  • HHJ Farquhar said that the SFJB had no income and was surprised to learn that they had a treasurer listed as a board member. He accepted that the SFJB must therefore have income and expenditure which should be publicly accounted for.

This is fraud or at the very least highly misleading behaviour by the SFJB by listing a Senior Judge as a board member without their knowledge or approval.

I can only assume this was done to give the SFJB some sense of importance and credibility but only serves to make their activities even more suspicious.

Financial Remedies Court Lead Judge

In the 4th July 2022 Revision of the FINANCIAL REMEDIES COURT (FRC) – OVERALL STRUCTURE OF THE FINANCIAL REMEDIES COURT AND THE ROLE AND FUNCTION OF THE LEAD JUDGE, HHJ Farquhar is listed as the Lead Financial Remedies Court (FRC) Judge for Kent, Surrey and Sussex.

Overall Structure Financial Remedies Court 4th July 2022Download

Farquhar Commitee

“HHJ Stuart Farquhar (Lead Judge of the Kent, Surrey & Sussex Financial Remedies Court (FRC)) was asked by The Honourable Mr Justice Mostyn earlier in 2021 to convene and lead a committee (consisting of a geographically diverse collection of judges at all levels of the judiciary and practitioners).

The committee was to consider in depth and report on the role of remote courts in the post-pandemic environment (Part 1) and the procedures of the Financial Remedies Court (Part 2).

The carefully considered and substantial final reports of the Farquhar Committee (Parts 1 and 2) are now being published so that they may inform decisions on moving matters forward in both these areas.

Report of the Farquhar Committee Part 1

The Financial Remedies Court – The Way Forward
A Paper to consider the future use of Remote Hearings in the FRC (PDF)

Report of the Farquhar Committee Part 2

The Financial Remedies Court – The Way Forward
A Paper to consider changes to the Practices and Procedures in the Financial Remedies Court (PDF)

Reports of the Farquhar Committee on the Financial Remedies Courts – Parts 1 and 2

Transparency Implementation Group Chair

On the the 11th February 2022 The President of the Family Division (PFD) announce that the Financial Remedy Court Transparency Group, will become the fifth sub group of the Transparency Implementation Group (TIG). This group will be chaired by HHJ Stuart Farquhar and will report to the main TIG.

Please refer to the Announcement for the Family Transparency Implementation Group (TIG)

On the 2nd June 2022 an article entitled Transparency in the FRC – The workings of the TIG Sub-Group written by HHJ Farquhar was published on the Transparency Project website.

Company Appointments

HHJ Stuart Farquhar was a Director of KESTEVEN AND GRANTHAM GIRLS’ SCHOOL ACADEMY TRUST (08133675), listing his occupation as District Judge, but resigned on the 9th October 2013 for unknown reasons.

HHJ Farquhar Contact Details

HHJ Stuart Farquhar judicial email address is [email protected] and he is based at the following Court :-

Brighton County Court Family Centre
1-2 Edward Street,
Brighton
BN2 0JD

Tel: 01273 674421
Email: [email protected]

HHJ Farquhar on the Internet

The Ministry of Injustice is delighted to be the No 1 Search result on Google for HHJ Farquhar (6th April 2023)

“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 – Can you criticise a judge ?

HHJ Farquhar Published Judgments

There are a number of HHJ Farquhar judgments available to view online !

His Honour Judge Farquhar admonished solicitor Paul Gardner for branding obsessed LiP a ‘sociopath’. Mary-Jane Grace v Ian Douglas Grace Neutral Citation Number[2025] EWFC 37 (B)

Judge Farquhar Notable Cases

A woman has been ordered to pay half of her ex-husband’s £160,000 gender reassignment surgery bill after a judge ruled the operation was a “need”, not a “whim”.

The 60-year-old woman had argued it was unfair for her to contribute £80,000 towards the cost of the surgery, saying her former spouse’s decision to transition was the reason their marriage ended.

But Judge Stuart Farquhar, sitting at Brighton Family Court, said it was “reasonable” for the couple to split the cost “out of joint resources”.

Judge Farquhar rules woman must pay half of ex-husband’s £160,000 gender surgery bill – The Standard

Is trans surgery really as essential as cancer treatment – Judge Farquhar ?

It’s worth spelling out what this means: a UK court (HHJ Farquhar) considers it reasonable to expect a mother of two children to pay £80,000 towards the cost of her ex-husband obtaining a fake vagina.

Unherd.com – Joan Smith on Judge Farquhar Case

Judge (Farquhar) tells divorcee to pay her ex-husband half the £160,000 cost of his trans surgery in millionaire couple’s court battle

Judge Stuart Farquhar said that while ‘this has been a hugely difficult and emotionally draining experience’ for the trans woman, the husband had ‘shown no understanding whatsoever that her decision to transition to a woman has had an impact on anyone else, and particularly’ his ex-wife.

Daily Mail

Divorcee forced (by Judge Farquhar)to pay half of ex-husband’s trans surgery in legal first

In his ruling the judge noted that the husband had provided medical evidence of gender dysphoria which had caused “significant anxiety, depression and distress” and for which “the vaginoplasty surgery was considered the next appropriate step”

The Telegraph

This article contains personal opinions protected by common law and Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998 along with publicly available information.

Image shown is an amateur artists impression by the author and for illustration only. It is not His Honour Judge Stuart Farquhar (HHJ Farquhar)

“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 Judge Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Andrew Menary 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.

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
Judiciary Legal Professionals

HHJ Robin Bedford

his honour judge bedford

HHJ Bedford was appointed as a Deputy District Judge on the North Eastern Circuit in May 2002, a District Judge in 2007 and a Circuit Judge on the 10th April 2013.

“HM the Queen has appointed Robin Steven Bedford, to be a District Judge on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, Lord Falconer. The Lord Chief Justice, Lord Phillips of Worth Matravers, has assigned him to the North Eastern Circuit, based in North and West Yorkshire with effect from Monday 19 February 2007. Mr Bedford, 43, was admitted as a solicitor in October 1988.”

Appointment of a district judge – Robin Steven Bedford

Robin Stephen Bedford is called His Honour Judge Bedford or abbreviated to HHJ Bedford. In Court he is addressed as Your Honour.

HHJ Bedford is the Designated Family Judge for Sussex and was originally appointed on the 1st July 2017.

On the 5th August 2025, The Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales, the Right Honourable The Baroness Carr Of Walton-On-The-Hill has appointed His Honour Judge Bedford to be a Senior Circuit Judge, Designated Family Judge, based at Brighton Family Centre.

Sussex Family Justice Board Membership

HHJ Robin Bedford was listed as board member of the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Website (SFJB), along with a number of Senior Sussex Judges.

“The judge is not a member of the board as to be so would be incompatible with the independent position of the judiciary.”

Judiciary and the local justice system

A google search returns the following which clearly shows HHJ Bedford as a board member :-

A Bing search returns the following which clearly shows HHJ Bedford as a board member :-

“His Honour Judge Bedford. Designated Family Judge for Sussex. 21 December 2020.

Dear all,. It’s some months since I inflicted one of my bulletins upon you.”

Sussex Family Justice Board 21st December 2020

HHJ Farquhar stated that he had covered for His Honour Judge Robin Bedford at several SFJB events. He also confirmed that HHJ Bedford, The Designated and Most Senior Family Judge in Sussex, was definitely a member of the Sussex Family Justice Board.

It’s refreshing to see an Honour “Stitched Up” by another Honour after an Honour attempted to “Stich” me up !

Is there no such a thing as “Honour” amongst thieves ?

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

HHJ Bedford Contact Details

HHJ Robin Bedford judicial email address is [email protected] and he is based at the following Court :-

Brighton County Court Family Centre
1-2 Edward Street,
Brighton
BN2 0JD

Tel: 01273 674421
Email: [email protected]

HHJ Bedford on the Internet

“Two years ago today this lowlife scumbag made an order knowing it would lead to a fathers death through ill health. Dishonour Judged Bedford will be exposed as the murderer he is. We will never forgive or forget. Still no apology to those involved either from this despicable oxygen thief.”

UK Corrupt Family Courts Name and Shame

“Another mother has come forward about this Monster who calls himself a judge, Bedford.

Again he was swinging on his chair gnawing on a pen while staring around a room in a world of his own.

He put costs before a child’s family being kept together. The family needed either a mother and baby unit to prove they can parent or a home. He ignored this and went with adoption.

How this twisted moron sleeps at night we have no clue. Probably doesn’t and why he’s daydreaming all day!

Wake up Bedford and start helping these families instead of breaking them you twisted individual.”

UK Corrupt Family Courts Name and Shame

His Honour Judge Robin Bedford led the walk this year as posted by Herrington Solicitors.

“Meet ‘Dishonour’ Judge Robin Bedford. (Wonder if there’s something about the name Robin)
He can normally be found masquerading as a Judge at Hastings Court.
He is usually swinging on his chair while daydreaming staring at the ceiling and chewing a Bic Pen. All this while making sure he ignores vital evidence in a case.
This guy is not fit to be a judge and is someone who should never be allowed to preside over the lives of children. In short he is a danger.
The first time we came across this individual he was defending a violent father while the mother suffered the stress of being bullied and having him breach court orders. He ignored the fact that this father had no interest in his own son and the son making sexual allegations against the father. Instead he palmed the case off with a supervised contact order on the daughter and a care order with placement with the mother leaving The Local Authority to sort out the sorry mess of the case.
In the second case we come across him he signed an order of adoption on a second hearing due to a young mum having mental health problems. Knowing the mother didn’t understand the process was of no interest to him. This mother has since proved she can function and should be given a chance with her son.
The third case is the most terrible. Despite warnings and being shown evidence of why he shouldn’t he sent a 2 year old to go and live with her father who was mentally ill and physically disabled. He agreed he would take personal responsibility if anything went wrong. To date he has never apologised. The child was happily attached living with mother, well cared for meeting all her milestones and had minimal attachment to the father. In four months the child regressed in development and was abused as well as neglected. The father then died alone with the child in a flat which the mother warned would happen! The child now back in the mothers care is thriving and ahead of what’s expected of a child. There’s no local authority involvement and in their own words no role for them, they also agree this judge took a dangerous risk and it backfired to the detriment of the child.
This man should never preside over another child case. Any further screw ups by this twisted individual please inbox us!”

UK Corrupt Family Courts Name and Shame

“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 – Can you criticise a judge ?

Images of HHJ Bedford

The images shown on this page are from the Facebook Group UK Corrupt Family Courts Name and Shame . These images are believed to be of His Honour Judge Robin Bedford (HHJ Bedford).

Permission to use these images was sought from UK Corrupt Family Courts Name and Shame but no response was forthcoming.

I use these images under the Copyright exception of fair dealing, education and in the spirit of public interest.

This article contains personal opinions protected by common law and Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998 along with publicly available information.

“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, Mr Justice Williams, His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Andrew Menary 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.

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 ↓

Most Popular ↓

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

1 Crown Office Row Barrister Chambers (1COR)

1 crown office row barrister chambers

1 Crown Office Row Barrister Chambers was founded in 1935 and has been operating for over 85 years. One Crown Office Row has built a reputation as one of the leading sets of barristers in the UK. 1 Crown Office Row (1COR) Barrister Chambers have offices based in London and Brighton Sussex UK.

On the 1COR history page on their website, they claim

“No fewer than 16 former members have been appointed as judges of the High Court and above, with Lord Woolf being appointed a Law Lord, Lord Chief Justice and Master of the Rolls and both Lord Justice Watkins and Lord Justice Latham being appointed Deputy Lord Chief Justice. Numerous members have been appointed to positions on the circuit bench and in the County Court.”

The 1 Crown Office Row Barrister Chambers (1COR) website states :-

“1COR is one of the best common law sets of chambers at the Bar. It has strength-in-depth and all of its members are intellectually out of the top-drawer.”

1 Crown Office Row Barrister Chambers London 1COR

“1 Crown Office Row members provide expert legal counsel and representation with clerks offering first class service to our a diverse client base.”

1 Crown Office Row Barrister Chambers Brighton Sussex 1COR

“Save time and money on legal services with a Direct Access Barrister. Our Direct Access Clerks are waiting to assist you. They will happily recommend which Direct Access Barrister is best placed to help you.”

1COR Direct – Direct Access 1 Crown Office Row Barristers

1 Crown Office Row London Office

1 Crown Office Row
Temple
London
EC4Y 7HH

Tel: 020 7797 7500
Email: [email protected]

1 Crown Office Row Brighton Office

1 Crown Office Row
119 Church Street
Brighton
BN1 1UD

Tel: 01273 625 625
Email: [email protected]

1COR Direct Barristers London

1 Crown Office Row
Temple
London
EC4Y 7HH

Phone: 020 7797 7500
Email: [email protected]

1 COR Direct Barristers Brighton

1 Crown Office Row
119 Church Street
Brighton
BN1 1UD

Phone: 01273 81 00 11
Email : [email protected]

Check out our article on the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

Read our review of Gavin Howe Barrister and Eleanor Battie Barrister who are both based at the 1 Crown Office Row Barrister Chambers (1COR) in Brighton Sussex.

This page is not sponsored by 1 Crown Office Row (1COR) Barrister Chambers / 1COR Direct / Gavin Howe / Eleanor Battie nor is it an endorsement of 1 Crown Office Row (1COR) Barrister Chambers / 1 COR Direct / Gavin Howe / Eleanor Battie.

The photo featured in this article is of Rev D A C Barnes DD (RIP) which was taken on the 24th November 2022 outside the offices of 1 Crown Office Row Barrister Chambers (1COR) in Brighton Sussex. Rev Barnes was not a barrister.

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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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 Legal Professionals

Judges

Judges of England and Wales

What is a Judge ?

A judge is a legal professional who presides over court proceedings and makes rulings and judgments on legal cases.

Judges are responsible for ensuring that trials are conducted fairly and impartially, and for interpreting and applying the law in accordance with the relevant statutes, legal precedents, and principles of justice.

Check out our articles Could AI replace judges ? and Could AI replace lawyers ? for a detailed analysis of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and what it means for the Justice system not only in the UK but also around the world.

Types of Judges

  1. District Judges – who preside over cases in the County Court and in certain types of tribunals.
  2. Tribunal Judges – who preside over hearings in the various tribunals that exist to resolve disputes in specific areas of law. These tribunals include the Employment Tribunal, the First-tier Tribunal, the Upper Tribunal, and the Tax Tribunal, amongst others.
  3. Circuit Judges – who preside over cases in the Crown Court and some types of civil cases in the County Court.
  4. High Court Judges – who preside over cases in the High Court, which is a superior court with jurisdiction over a wide range of legal matters.
  5. Court of Appeal Judges – who preside over cases in the Court of Appeal, which hears appeals from the High Court and other lower courts.
  6. Supreme Court Justices – who preside over cases in the UK’s highest court, the Supreme Court, which is the final court of appeal in the UK for civil cases.

Day to Day tasks of a Judge

Judges daily tasks include :-

  • prepare for trials by reading papers submitted by legal teams
  • hear civil, family and criminal cases
  • listen to evidence from witnesses, defendants and victims
  • advise juries and legal teams on points of law
  • pass sentences on conviction and impose other penalties
  • reach decisions in tribunals, for example on employment disputes or immigration cases
  • help sides to find agreement in civil cases before proceedings begin
  • take expert opinion, for instance in custody or child welfare cases
  • hear appeals and review decisions of lower courts
  • write reports, giving reasons for rulings
  • keep up to date with legal developments
National Careers Service

Judges Pay and Hours

According to the National Careers Service judges can expect to get paid up to £267,509 and work up to 42 hours in a typical week. Please also see our article on Judges Salaries and Fees.

Working Hours of Judges

Some people do mistakenly think that judges’ working hours are confined to court sitting hours, which are normally 10.30am-4.30pm.

But the reality is very different; most judges also carry a lot of ‘box work’ (paperwork) on current and future (and sometimes past) cases – especially as most cases are settled or concluded before they reach the stage of a court hearing. It is not unusual for judges to work late into the evening, writing judgments and reading files of evidence and letters from parties. They do not claim overtime for this.

There are 4 terms in the legal year, which are the main sitting times for the High Court and Court of Appeal. Most courts do have sittings around the year, and even in the High Court and Court of Appeal, emergency hearings and processing of cases continue during the vacations.

Senior judges use the ‘vacation’ periods between terms to catch up on new legislation and case law, as well as undertaking formal training.

Courts and Tribunal Judiciary Working Hours

Judicial sitting days

Court of Appeal Judges and High Court Judges are expected to devote themselves to judicial business throughout the legal year which usually amounts to somewhere in the region of 185-190 days.

Circuit Judges are expected to sit for a minimum of 210 days, although the expectation is for between 215-220 per year.

District Judges are expected to sit for a minimum of 215 days.

Judges also have out of court duties to perform such as reading case papers, writing judgments, and keeping up to date with new developments in the law.

Courts and Tribunal Judiciary The legal year, term dates and sitting days

The Legal Year

The origins of the legal year are the service in Westminster Abbey which dates back to 1897 when judges prayed for guidance at the start of the legal term. Judges, whose courts were held in Westminster Hall, left the city and walked to the abbey to take part in the service.

The ceremonies now are more or less as they have always been but, instead of the two mile walk from Temple Bar to Westminster Abbey, the judges now travel by car.

The 45-minute service, which starts at 11:30am, is conducted by the Dean of Westminster. It includes prayers, hymns, psalms and anthems; the Lord Chancellor reads a lesson.

Around 700 people are invited to attend the service and breakfast. These include judges, senior judicial officers, the Law Officers, King’s Counsel (KC), government ministers, lawyers, members of the European Court and other overseas judges and lawyers. Judges and KCs wear ceremonial dress.

Courts and Tribunal Judiciary The legal year, term dates and sitting days

Term Dates

The term dates for the legal year apply to sittings in the High Court and Court of Appeal only, and are fixed in accordance with the Practice Direction 2F which supplements Part 39 of the Civil Procedure Rules.

2023

Hilary: Wednesday 11 January to Wednesday 5 April 2023
Easter: Tuesday 18 April to Friday 26 May 2023
Trinity: Tuesday 6 June to Monday 31 July 2023
Michaelmas: Monday 2 October to Thursday 21 December 2023

2024

Hilary: Thursday 11 January to Wednesday 27 March 2024
Easter: Tuesday 9 April to Friday 24 May 2024
Trinity: Tuesday 4 June to Wednesday 31 July 2024
Michaelmas: Tuesday 1 October to Friday 20 December 2024

Courts and Tribunal Judiciary The legal year, term dates and sitting days
Practice-Directions-39B-Court-SittingsDownload

How to Become a Judge

You can only become a Judge through an official appointment.

Volunteering

You can get valuable experience and insights into the work of a judge through the Judicial Work Shadowing Scheme. This may help if you later apply for selection to become a judge.

You normally have to be a qualified legal professional, with at least 7 years’ experience in law-related work to join.

If you have been on the Judicial Work Shadowing Scheme, you can apply for a place on the Judicial Mentoring Scheme. This scheme is open to applications from people who are currently under-represented in the judiciary. For example:

  • women
  • ethnic minorities
  • lawyers with a state school education
National Careers Service

Other routes to becoming a Judge

Judges are appointed by the Judicial Appointments Commission. You’ll need to apply to them to be considered for selection.

To apply, you must:

  • be a qualified solicitor, barrister or chartered legal executive
  • have worked as a legal professional for between 5 and 7 years, depending on the type of judge you want to be
  • meet nationality requirements

Common starting roles include district, recorder and tribunal judges. For certain other judicial roles, you can apply if you’re an experienced legal academic, or trademark or patent attorney.

You must successfully complete several application stages to get through to shortlisting by the Commission. You’ll then be invited to attend an assessment and selection day, which will include interviews.

National Careers Service
What are Judges Lodgings ?

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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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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Law Legal Professionals

HMCTS

Ministry of Injustice - Law and Justice

His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) is an executive agency of the UK government, operating under the Ministry of Justice.

The Lord Chancellor, The Rt Hon Shabana Mahmood MP, heads the Ministry of Justice as the Secretary of State for Justice.

HMCTS Complaints Procedure

You might want to make a complaint to HMCTS. The HMCTS complaint process looks at how your case was handled by their staff.

HMCTS are not able to change the decision in your case or investigate how a judge or magistrate acted towards you.

HMCTS uses the Opinions, Praise, Treatment, Incident and Complaints system (OPTIC) which is the HMCTS feedback database/system used to record all customer feedback.

To complain about the HMCTS:

  • complete the online complaints form
  • speak to a member of staff in their buildings who will record your feedback
  • contact the courts or tribunals by email, phone or in writing

If you remain unsatisfied at the end of the complaints process, you can also ask your member of Parliament to refer your case to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.

HMCTS ignore complaints

I raised an online complaint with HMCTS about the shambolic Brighton Family Court and Sussex Family Team on the 16th January 2023 some 55 working days ago (correct as 31st March 2023).

Confirmation email of complaint from HMCTS OPTIC 19th January 2023

I have previously attempted to raise a complaint with Sussex Family Court (in person, by phone, by email) but no one wants to communicate or accept any responsibility.

Sussex Family Court and its staff fail to communicate, list hearings, process applications, deal with complaints and struggle with basic administration. A senior judge told me they are short staffed and are “doing their best”.

This court and its staff are clearly “interfering with the smooth administration of justice” and are not fit for purpose.

HMCTS are in effect in contempt of court by their actions/inactions.

HMCTS claim to respond within 10 working days.

There has been absolutely no response despite having chased them 3 times with emails to [email protected]. Either my complaint is lost, I am being deliberately being ignored or they are still busy coming up with excuses ?

There are no published phone numbers for HMCTS and the only email addresses listed are [email protected] or [email protected].

There is no way I can see of contacting HMCTS.

On the 22nd March 2023 in utter desperation I sent the following to the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) Data protection Officer (DPO).

Dear MoJ DPO

https://complain-about-a-court-or-tribunal.form.service.justice.gov.uk/privacy

Do you have any contact details for the Complaints or “HMCTS optic” team ? I cannot find an email address or telephone number for the complaints team.

I am concerned that they are either deliberately ignoring me or my personal data has fallen into a “worm hole”.

I would therefore also like to make a SAR. I assume this can be done by email to you instead of by post to Disclosure Team which seems an antiquated approach.

Your help would be much appreciated.

Email to MoJ DPO [email protected] / [email protected]

HMCTS OPTIC Privacy Policy

The HMCTS OPTIC Privacy Policy clearly states that the data protection officer can be contacted at [email protected]

HMCTS OPTIC Privacy Policy 22nd March 2023

This is incorrect as emails to that address are undelivered. That email address does not exist.

Undelivered email to [email protected]

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) entry for Z5679958 lists the DPO as [email protected].

Ministry of Justice ICO Registration reference:  Z5679958 24th March 2023

Is this an innocent mistake or further evidence of institutional incompetence ?

To be really “petty”, Petty should have a capital P as well. Hopefully they will update their website.

The MoJ’s DPO has a duty under GDPR to publish accurate information.

The requirement to send a Subject Access Request (SAR) to a postal address is also dubious and unnecessary as an email should suffice.

HMCTS OPTIC Privacy Policy SAR by Post 22nd March 2023

Update 24th March 2023 : The MoJ Data Access Team [email protected] have responded acknowledging the SAR. It seems, as suspected, you can apply by email and save a stamp.

However, they haven’t updated their email template and still refer to Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service and Her Majesty’s Court and Tribunal Service.

What an insult to his majesty the King. I have asked them to update this.

Dear Mr Watts

SUBJECT: Subject Access Request

Thank you for your email below in which you asked for information from the Ministry of Justice (MoJ).

Your request has been handled in line with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act (DPA) 2018 as a Subject Access Request (SAR) for your personal information.

In order for us to process your request we require acceptable proof of your identity.

  • Verifying Identity

Copies of two types of proof of identity. These can be a copy of a recent utility bill (dated within the last three months) and a copy of the photograph page of your passport or driving licence.

  • Search Location/Clarification

The MoJ is a large department with many functions and it will greatly assist us in providing you with the exact information you require if you are able to:

  1. Specify the information or processing activities your request relates to
  2. Provide more details that will help us locate the requested information; such as the context in which your information may have been processed and the likely dates when processing occurred

For your information, in the context of SARs, the MoJ consists of:-

  • Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service
  • Her Majesty’s Court and Tribunal Service
  • The Office of the Public Guardian,
  • The Legal Aid Agency, and
  • A large MoJ “HQ”

On receipt of acceptable proof of I.D. we will continue to process your request.

Yours sincerely

Disclosure Team

Disclosure & Library Team,
Information Services Division
Security and Information Group

MoJ Disclosure Team 24th March 2023

I still await a response from the MoJ to resolve my complaint along with a detailed explanation for the inexcusable HMCTS tardiness.

In the meantime check out our article on the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

Who are HMCTS ?

His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) is an executive agency of the UK government, operating under the Ministry of Justice. It is responsible for administering the court system in England and Wales, providing support to the courts, tribunals, and other judicial bodies to ensure their effective and efficient operation.

The history of HMCTS reflects a drive to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the justice system, through the merger of the Court Service and the Tribunals Service in 2011. This created a more streamlined and efficient system that is better equipped to meet the needs of the public, under the oversight of the Ministry of Justice.

The annual budget of HMCTS is significant, reflecting the importance of the services it provides to the public. In 2021/22, the agency’s budget was £1.8 billion, which was a decrease from the previous year’s budget of £1.9 billion. The reduction in funding was due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the agency to scale back some of its activities.

HMCTS is one of the largest employers in the UK justice system, with a workforce of around 28,000 staff. The agency employs a diverse range of people, including court staff, judges, legal advisers, and administrative staff, overseen by the Ministry of Justice.

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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Family Law Legal Professionals

Family Barristers

Ministry of Injustice - Law and Justice

Family law is the branch of law that deals with family-related issues, such as divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family Barristers who specialise in family law are often called upon to provide sensitive and compassionate advice and representation to clients who are going through difficult personal situations.

In family law cases, family barristers are typically instructed by solicitors on behalf of their clients. The solicitor will handle the administration of the case and prepare the necessary legal documents, while the barrister will provide expert advice and representation in court proceedings.

Family Barristers must have a deep understanding of the complex emotional and legal issues that arise in family disputes. They must also have excellent advocacy skills, as they will be required to present complex legal arguments to judges and juries in court while being sensitive to the emotional needs of their clients.

You can find a family barrister using The Bar Council Find a Barrister website which will help you to find a barrister to represent you, either through a solicitor or through the direct access scheme.

Barristers are legal professionals who specialise in advocacy and litigation. They play a vital role in the legal system, representing clients in court and providing legal advice. Barristers can be classified into two types: direct access barristers and traditional barristers.

Most barristers are self-employed, individual practitioners who may work as a solo practitioner or, more commonly, in groups of offices known as barristers chambers.

In England, “called to the bar” is a term used to describe the formal admission of a person to practice as a barrister in the courts of England and Wales. It is a ceremony where a person who has completed the necessary education and training, which typically includes obtaining a qualifying law degree, completing the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), and undertaking a period of pupillage, is officially recognized as a barrister and granted the right to practice in the courts.

The ceremony involves the person being called to the bar by the Inn of Court to which they belong, which is one of the four professional associations for barristers in England and Wales. During the ceremony, the person will typically make a declaration of allegiance and professionalism, and they will then sign the roll of barristers. After being called to the bar, the person can then appear in court and provide legal representation to clients.

The Inns of Court in London are the professional associations for barristers in England and Wales. There are four Inns of Court – Gray’s Inn, Lincoln’s Inn, Inner Temple and Middle Temple.

A limited number of senior barristers receive ‘silk’ – becoming King’s Counsel (KC) – as a mark of outstanding ability. They are normally instructed in very serious or complex cases. Most senior judges once practised as KCs

The Bar Council which is the independent, practising Bar of England and Wales is more than 16,500 strong and plays a crucial role in upholding the principles of government accountability under law and vindication of legal rights through the courts.

The Bar Standards Board (BSB) regulates barristers and specialised legal services businesses in England and Wales in the public interest.

The BSB Handbook 5.0 contains the rules about how barristers must behave and work. It also contains the Code of Conduct for barristers.

Reporting a Concern about a Barrister such as Gavin Howe of the Sussex Barristers Chambers known as 1 Crown Office Row (1COR) is straightforward at the Bar Standards Board website using the Online Reporting Form.

You can also report your concern about a barrister by using the Word version of the form and then sending it by email to [email protected] or by post to: The Bar Standards Board, 289-293 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7HZ.

Many family law barristers are members of the Family Law Bar Association (FLBA) which is the specialist Bar Association for family barristers and has over 1700 members.

The Criminal Bar Association (CBA) exists to represent the views and interests of approximately 2,400 specialist criminal barristers in England & Wales.

The London Common Law & Commercial Bar Association (LCLCBA) has approximately 1500 members and is open to any member of the Bar of England & Wales whose practice is predominantly civil law within the High Court, including the Commercial Court, the County Court and/or tribunals in and around London.

The Chancery Bar Association (ChBA) has over 1300 members who practise Chancery law.

The Fraud Lawyers Association (FLA) was established in 2012. Its members are drawn from leading firms and chambers.

The FLA aims to provide a forum to represent experienced lawyers (solicitors, barristers, and legal executives) practising in the areas of civil and criminal fraud. 

Barristers

Traditional barristers are barristers who work through solicitors. They are instructed by solicitors on behalf of clients and provide legal advice, prepare legal documents and represent clients in court proceedings. Traditional barristers are experts in their field and are often called upon to provide specialist advice and representation in complex and high-profile cases.

To become a traditional barrister, individuals must complete the necessary education and training. This includes obtaining a qualifying law degree or a degree in another subject followed by a one-year conversion course. After completing their degree, they must undertake the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) and complete a one-year pupillage with a senior barrister. After completing pupillage, they can apply for tenancy and become a self-employed barrister.

Traditional barristers have a close working relationship with solicitors, who instruct them on behalf of clients. Solicitors handle the administration of cases and the preparation of legal documents, while barristers provide advice and representation in court proceedings. This division of labour allows barristers to specialise in advocacy and litigation, while solicitors specialise in legal research and document preparation.

Direct Access Barristers

Direct access barristers are barristers who can be instructed directly by members of the public without the need for a solicitor. This means that clients can contact a direct access barrister directly and receive legal advice and representation without going through a solicitor. Direct access barristers have undergone the same training and qualification process as traditional barristers, but they have also completed additional training to enable them to work directly with clients.

Direct access barristers are useful for clients who have a good understanding of their legal case and who can manage some aspects of their case themselves. Clients can choose to instruct a direct access barrister for a particular aspect of their case or for the entire case, depending on their needs and budget. However, direct access barristers are not suitable for all cases, particularly those that are complex or involve a significant amount of legal work.

The use of direct access barristers has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it offers clients greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Clients can choose to instruct a direct access barrister for a particular aspect of their case or for the entire case, depending on their needs and budget. This can result in significant cost savings for clients, as they do not need to pay for the services of a solicitor in addition to a barrister.

However, there are some limitations to the use of direct access barristers. Direct access barristers are not suitable for all cases, particularly those that are complex or involve a significant amount of legal work. Clients who are not familiar with the legal system may also find it difficult to navigate the process of instructing a direct access barrister and may benefit from the assistance of a solicitor.

Barristers Summary

In summary, both traditional and direct access barristers play important roles in the legal system in the UK. Traditional barristers work closely with solicitors to provide clients with high-quality legal advice and representation, while direct access barristers offer clients greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness by allowing them to instruct a barrister directly without the need for a solicitor.

Types of Law covered by Barristers

Civil Law

Civil law is the branch of law that deals with disputes between individuals or organisations, such as contract disputes, property disputes, and personal injury claims. Barristers who specialise in civil law are often called upon to provide expert advice and representation in complex and high-value cases.

In civil law cases, barristers are typically instructed by solicitors on behalf of their clients. The solicitor will handle the administration of the case and prepare the necessary legal documents, while the barrister will provide expert advice and representation in court proceedings.

Barristers who specialise in civil law must have a deep understanding of the legal principles and rules that govern civil disputes. They must also have excellent advocacy skills, as they will be required to present complex legal arguments to judges and juries in court.

Criminal Law

Criminal law is the branch of law that deals with offences against the state or society, such as theft, assault, and murder. Barristers who specialise in criminal law are often called upon to provide expert advice and representation in complex and high-profile criminal cases.

In criminal law cases, barristers are typically instructed by solicitors on behalf of their clients. The solicitor will handle the administration of the case and prepare the necessary legal documents, while the barrister will provide expert advice and representation in court proceedings.

Barristers who specialise in criminal law must have a deep understanding of the legal principles and rules that govern criminal offences. They must also have excellent advocacy skills, as they will be required to present complex legal arguments to judges and juries in court.

Check out our articles on Barristers, Direct Access Barristers, Four Inns of Court, Bar Standards Board, Bar Standards Board Justice ?, Solicitors, Rule of Law 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 ↓

Most Popular ↓

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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