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His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC

His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC

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

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

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

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

His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC on X !

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

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

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

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

His Honour Judge Inman was a Circuit Judge.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Section 1112 of the Companies Act 2006

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

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

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

(a) dishonestly makes a false representation, and

(b )intends, by making the representation—

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

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

(2) A representation is false if—

(a) it is untrue or misleading, and

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

Fraud Act 2006 – Section 2 Fraud by false representation

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

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

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

Authorisation to sit as a High Court Judge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“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’

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

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

Categories
Civil Justice Legal Professionals

What is a Costs Lawyer ?

Costs Lawyer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Complain about a Costs Lawyer – Costs Lawyer Standards Board

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

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

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

“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’

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
Legal Professionals

What is a Legal Executive ?

Legal Executives

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Us – Chartered Institute of Legal Executives

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

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

“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’

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 Analysis Legal Professionals

What is the Legal Ombudsman ?

Legal Ombudsman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“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’

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
Judiciary Legal Professionals

His Honour Judge Martin Davis

Circuit Judge HHJ

His Honour Judge Martin Davis was accused by a member of court staff of numerous allegations, primarily that HHJ Davis made overfamiliar and inappropriate comments while they worked together which made her uncomfortable.

The complaint was subsequently investigated by the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office who issued a disciplinary statement 5224 on the 3rd October 2024.

HHJ Michael Slater, was admitted to the Roll of Solicitors in 1994. He was appointed as a Deputy District Judge in 2010, as a Tribunal Judge in 2011, as a District Judge in 2014 and as a Recorder in 2019. The then Lord Chief Justice deployed him to the Western Circuit, based at Taunton Crown, County and Family Court with effect from 11 July 2022

A spokesperson for the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office said:

The Lady Chief Justice, with the Lord Chancellor’s agreement, has issued His Honour Judge (HHJ) Martin Davis with formal advice for misconduct.

Facts
The Guide to Judicial Conduct reminds judicial office-holders to be courteous and to respect the dignity of all. It also reminds them to treat others fairly and respectfully, be mindful of their authority, and aware of how their words and behaviour can affect others.

A complaint was made about HHJ Davis by a member of court staff. She made numerous allegations, primarily that he made overfamiliar and inappropriate comments while they worked together, which made her uncomfortable.

HHJ Davis’ representations
HHJ Davis denied the allegations. He claimed the complainant had misremembered or misrepresented his words. He explained that he takes an interest in his colleagues, with whom he enjoys conversations and has built positive relationships. However, upon reflection, he had learned to be more careful when sharing personal anecdotes and views and to always have regard to the powerful position he holds.

Investigating judge’s findings
Following an investigation carried out under the Judicial Conduct (Judicial and other office holders) Rules 2014, the investigating judge found that the majority of the allegations were not established. However, she found that HHJ Davis inappropriately and unnecessarily shared his strongly held moral beliefs with the complainant, a female member of staff who was subordinate to him, and therefore unable to object to anything said, and who did not know him. He was overfamiliar in his conversations with her, for example through his ill-judged use of humour and excessive sharing of personal anecdotes. This was intended to be friendly but made the complainant uncomfortable. He was not sufficiently mindful of his position of authority and did not consider the effect of his words and behaviour on the complainant. He therefore did not treat her with respect.

In recommending a formal warning, the investigating judge considered the fact that HHJ Davis is an experienced office-holder who should have been mindful of his position of authority. Furthermore, while he had shown insight and reflection, he had not offered an apology.

Decision
Having considered the investigating judge’s findings and the mitigation offered by HHJ Davis, the Lady Chief Justice and Lord Chancellor determined that the issue of formal advice, rather than a formal warning, was appropriate. A sanction of formal advice was more consistent with the findings made. In reaching their decision, they took into consideration that HHJ Davis did not intend to cause offence or discomfort to the complainant, and that he in fact intended to be friendly and approachable. They agreed with the investigating judge that the misconduct was at the lower end of seriousness. They also noted that the matter related to a brief period and that HHJ Davis had an unblemished record.

STATEMENT FROM THE JUDICIAL CONDUCT OFFICE JCIO 52/24
HHJ Martin Davis – JCIO-Statement5224 Download

Had His Honour Judge Martin Davis been in any other profession would he have been fired ?

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, Mr Justice Williams, His Honour Now His Dishonour, His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Andrew Menary KC, His Honour Judge Jeremy William Richardson KC, His Honour Judge Guy Kearl, His Honour Judge Michael Slater, 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.

“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’

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

Eleanor Battie Barrister

Eleanor Battie
Eleanor Battie Barrister

Eleanor Battie is a self employed barrister at the 1 Crown Office Row (1COR) Barristers Chambers in Brighton. Eleanor Battie can be reached at [email protected]

Ms Battie is also a direct access barrister at 1COR Direct

Eleanor Battie was called by Lincoln’s Inn in July 2004.

You should read our article on Dodgy Judges and Eleanor Battie’s involvement with the Judicial Conduct Office (JCIO) in which there was, in my opinion, an untrue claim made that she as a barrister was an “Officer of the Court”

If you are unfortunate enough to come across Eleanor Battie, you should ask her about the “secret emails” between her and the dodgy judge DDJ Nicholes.

Ms Battie publishes a number of testimonials at 1COR and 1COR Direct.

Eleanor Harriet Battie in a pdf testimonial published on the 1cor.com website proclaims that She is a one-woman legal “A Team”

Ms Battie a one-woman legal “A Team”
eleanor-battie-a-teamDownload

The A Team, despite being fictional characters, were convicted by a Military Court for a crime they claim they didn’t commit. They then escaped and went on the run and survived as “soldiers of fortune”. They can only be described as violent criminals, mercenaries or thugs for hire.

It therefore seems odd that a barrister such as Ms Battie would appear to be be proud to glorify violence, criminality and evading justice ? No doubt this behaviour is also in breach of the Bar Standards Handbook 5.0

Barristers are certainly paid incredibly well and despite claims of high of morals and professionalism, they can, in my opinion, act like thugs at time especially against a Litigant in Person (LIP).

If the A Team were innocent, surely they could have found and hired a reputable lawyer and appealed their convictions ?

Is Eleanor Battie therefore a self proclaimed “solider of fortune” or a thug for hire ?

This page is not sponsored by Eleanor Battie, a barrister at 1COR, nor is it an endorsement of Eleanor Battie. It contains personal opinions protected by common law and Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998 along with publicly available information.

Read the reviews of Gavin Howe Barrister (Gray’s Inn) who is also a barrister at the 1 Crown Office Row (1COR) Barristers Chambers in Brighton Sussex.

Check out our articles on Barristers, Direct Access Barristers, Bar Standards Board, Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Services, Bar Council, Council of the Inns of Court, Four Inns of Court, Etiquette and Manners in Court and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

Fair dealing for criticism, review or quotation is allowed for any type of copyright work. All sources acknowledged. First Published 24th March 2023.

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.

“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’

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
Judiciary Legal Professionals

DDJ Catherine Nicholes

DDJ Nicholes

Catherine Nicholes is a barrister of England and Wales. Ms Nicholes is also a Deputy District Judge. She is known as DDJ Nicholes, Deputy District Judge Nicholes, DDJ Catherine Nicholes or DDJ Cathy Nicholes and should be addressed as “judge or madam” in court.

As a Deputy District Judge, Catherine Nicholes is paid £623.74 a day according to the Judicial Fees 2024 to 2025.

Catherine Nicholes was called by Inner Temple as a Barrister in May 1977.

Ms Catherine Margaret Elizabeth Nicholes is listed on the register of the Bar Standards Board.

I would think twice about employing Catherine Nicholes as a barrister.

If you are unfortunate enough to be allocated DDJ Nicholes in court, then I would suggest you ask her to recuse herself.

You should ask her about the “secret emails” between her and the dodgy barrister Eleanor Battie.

“You are clearly not disabled” and “if you were disabled the court would have known about it.”

It is widely accepted that not all disabilities are visible. Depression and mental health issues can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010.

Deputy District Judge Nicholes is, in my humble opinion, dangerous, discriminatory, outdated and offensive.

This old dinosaur should be put out to pasture.

Dom Watts – Ministry of Injustice

According to Companies House, Catherine Margaret Elizabeth NICHOLES was born in 1954 and has 2 current appointments and 2 appointments that she has resigned from.

https://www.coramchambers.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Cathy-Nicholes.png

Catherine Nicholes is listed at the Coram Chambers London

9-11 Fulwood Place
London WC1V 6HG
United Kingdom
+44 20 7092 3700

Emergency Contact
+44 (0) 7411 970 188
[email protected]

Catherine originally practised in crime, general civil and family law. She was delighted to join a chambers which pioneered and specialised in care proceedings long before that area became popular at the Bar. Her practice in care proceedings was originally very much in representing the parents, wider family, or the child both with and without a guardian. She continues to specialise in such work and has particular expertise in representing clients who have personality difficulties, mental health issues or are accused of very serious abuse.

Catherine Nicholes – Coram Chambers

DDJ Nicholes email address is [email protected]

Ms Nicholes, I am told, is not keen on the public having her judicial email address, but its publication is not illegal. Many judges including High Court Judges freely publish their email address on the Internet. For example :-

This page is not sponsored by Catherine Nicholes, a barrister at Coram Chambers, nor is it an endorsement of Catherine Nicholes. It contains personal opinions protected by common law and Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998 along with publicly available information.

Fair dealing for criticism, review or quotation is allowed for any type of copyright work. All sources acknowledged.

“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 Judge Jeremy Richardson KC, His Honour Now His Dishonour, His Honour Judge Michael Slater, His Honour Judge Martin Davis, HHJ Farquhar, Judge Pinder, Can you Email a Judge ?, Can you Criticise a Judge ?, Do you Have to Bow to a Judge ?, Royal Sussex County Hospital 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.

“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’

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 Analysis Legal Professionals

Law Commission of England and Wales

Law Commission

The Law Commission of England and Wales stands as a cornerstone of legal reform in the United Kingdom, tasked with the continuous review and recommendation of changes to the law to ensure it remains fair, modern, simple, and cost-effective. Established by the Law Commissions Act 1965, this independent body operates under the umbrella of the Ministry of Justice but conducts its work with autonomy, aiming to streamline and update the legal framework for the benefit of society.

The Law Commission Slogan is “Reforming the Law”

Purpose and Function

  • Law Review: The primary function of the Law Commission is to keep the law under review. This involves identifying areas where the law might be outdated, complex, or inefficient, and suggesting reforms.
  • Public Consultation: Before finalizing recommendations, the Commission engages in extensive public consultation. This democratic process ensures that stakeholders, from legal professionals to the general public, have an opportunity to influence the law’s direction.
  • Recommendations and Legislation: Following consultation, the Commission submits its recommendations to Parliament. These recommendations often lead to new legislation or amendments to existing laws, demonstrating the Commission’s significant impact on legal policy.
  • Projects: The Commission’s work spans across various legal domains including criminal law, property law, family law, among others. Each project is carefully selected based on necessity, impact, and feasibility.

From time to time we consult widely to help us draw up a new programme of law reform. The Law Commissions Act 1965 requires the Commission to submit “programmes for the examination of different branches of the law” to the Lord Chancellor for his approval before undertaking new work.

Before deciding which projects to take forward, the Law Commission takes views from judges, lawyers, Government Departments, the voluntary and business sectors, and the general public.

We also take on projects that are referred to us by Government Departments.

How We Work – The Law Commission

Structure and Governance

The Commission is led by a Chairman, currently Sir Peter Fraser, supported by four Commissioners, a Chief Executive, Non-Executive Board Members, and a team that includes legal experts, policy analysts, and research staff. This structure facilitates a multidisciplinary approach to law reform, ensuring that legal changes are both practical and theoretically sound.

  • Independence: While sponsored by the Ministry of Justice, the Commission’s independence is crucial. It operates free from political interference, allowing for impartial law reform.
  • Funding and Approval: The Law Commission’s work programs are approved by the Lord Chancellor, but day-to-day operations and project decisions remain within the Commission’s purview.

The Law Commission’s work is often behind the scenes but profoundly impacts everyday legal practices and public policy. Approximately 70% of its recommendations have been enacted or accepted by the government, showcasing its effectiveness in driving legal reform.

Public Perception and Engagement

Public engagement with the Law Commission’s initiatives, as reflected from discussions online, shows a mix of support for its efforts towards transparency and modernisation, alongside criticisms or concerns regarding specific reforms or government interactions with its recommendations. This dialogue underscores the Commission’s role not just as a reformer but also as a bridge between the public and the legal system.

Contact the Law Commission

Phone:  020 3334 0200
Email:  [email protected]
X (Twitter): @Law_Commission
Fax:  020 3334 0201
Address:  1st Floor, Tower, 52 Queen Anne’s Gate, London SW1H 9AG

The Law Commission publish the latest news on their website.

The Law Commission of England and Wales is more than just a body for legal reform; it represents the evolving nature of law in response to societal changes. By continuously reviewing and suggesting changes, it plays a vital role in ensuring that the legal system remains relevant, accessible, and just. For anyone interested in the mechanics of law-making or the evolution of legal thought, understanding the Law Commission provides insight into how laws are not just created but are continuously refined for the contemporary world.

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

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

“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’

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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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Council of the Inns of Court (COIC)

Council of the Inns of Court

The Council of the Inns of Court (COIC), established as a charitable organization in 2014, plays a pivotal role in the legal community of the United Kingdom by overseeing professional standards and advocacy training for barristers. Based in London, COIC operates under the aegis of four historic Inns of Court—Lincoln’s Inn, Inner Temple, Middle Temple, and Gray’s Inn, each of which has its roots deeply embedded in centuries of legal tradition.

Structure and Leadership

The COIC is governed by a board comprising distinguished members from the legal field, including Anne Sharp CBE, Greg Dorey CVO, Christopher Ghika KCVO CBE, Marion Smith KC, and Brigadier Stephen Cartwright OBE. This diverse leadership reflects the Council’s commitment to a broad spectrum of legal expertise and administrative oversight. The recent appointment of Andy Russell as the new Director of COIC in August 2024 marks a new chapter in its operational direction, following the commendable tenure of his predecessor, James Wakefield.

  • The Rt. Hon. Lord Justice Green (President)
  • Janet Bignell KC, Lincoln’s Inn
  • Anne Sharp CBE, Under Treasurer of Lincoln’s Inn
  • Judge Jill Frances, Inner Temple
  • Greg Dorey CVO, Sub-Treasurer of the Inner Temple
  • Chantal-Aimee Doerries KC, Middle Temple
  • Christopher Ghika KCVO CBE, Under Treasurer of Middle Temple
  • Marion Smith KC, Gray’s Inn
  • Brigadier Stephen Cartwright OBE, Under Treasurer of Gray’s Inn
Current Board members of the Council of the Inns of Court

Operational Arms

Under the COIC’s umbrella, two significant bodies operate:

  • The Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Service (BTAS): This entity manages the disciplinary proceedings for barristers. It’s responsible for ensuring that members of the bar adhere to the highest standards of professional conduct. Recent updates to the sanctions guidelines by BTAS reflect a meticulous review of disciplinary practices, aiming for consistency and fairness in legal accountability.
  • The Inns of Court College of Advocacy (ICCA): Committed to educational excellence, ICCA provides training not just for barristers but also for future legal professionals. Its focus on advocacy skills and professional ethics positions it as a hub for legal education, with initiatives like the ICCA Bar Course, which is validated by King’s College London, underscoring its academic rigor.

Mission and Impact

COIC’s mission is rooted in promoting the rule of law through advocacy excellence. By facilitating training, setting standards, and responding to legal consultations, COIC influences the broader legal landscape beyond the immediate confines of the Inns. Its efforts ensure that advocacy remains a cornerstone of justice, with a commitment to high ethical standards.

Founded by the Inns of Court, COIC works with them in strengthening the rule of law through excellence in professional and ethical education and in maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct. In practice this means that COIC will seek to promote:

• excellence in advocacy and professional knowledge
• ethical practice and integrity
• an accessible, diverse, and inclusive profession
• a collaborative profession.

Statement of purpose – Council of the Inns of Court

Historical Context and Cultural Significance

The Inns of Court, where COIC is deeply integrated, have historical ties not only to legal education but also to cultural and theatrical activities during the English Renaissance. This rich heritage underscores the COIC’s role not just as a regulatory body but as a custodian of legal tradition and culture.

The Council of the Inns of Court, through its structured governance, educational initiatives, and disciplinary oversight, continues to be a vital institution for the legal profession in the UK. Its operations ensure that the legal practitioners are not only well-trained but also held to a standard that upholds the integrity of the law.

As the COIC moves forward under new leadership, its role in shaping the future of advocacy and legal ethics remains as crucial as ever, maintaining the delicate balance between tradition and modernity in the legal world.

Check out our articles on Barristers, 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.

“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’

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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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Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Services

The Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Services

The Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Services (BTAS) is an organisation responsible for managing the disciplinary process for barristers in England and Wales.

The Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Service’s role in recruiting, appointing and administering all Disciplinary panels safeguards the independence of the panels within the disciplinary process.

  • Purpose and Function: The Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Services is tasked with appointing and administering various types of hearings, including Disciplinary Tribunals for barristers accused of professional misconduct, Interim Suspension Hearings, Fitness to Practise Hearings, and hearings related to the Inns’ Conduct Committee (ICC) for student members or applicants to the Inns of Court. These hearings ensure that the professional standards of barristers are maintained and that any misconduct is appropriately addressed.

Since its creation in 1986 and as a result of a Resolution of the Judges dated 26 November 1986, the Council of the Inns of Court (“COIC”) has been the body responsible for recruiting, appointing and administering Bar disciplinary panels.  It does so in accordance with its constitution, which specifies that Disciplinary Tribunals shall be appointed in accordance with the provisions of the Disciplinary Tribunal Regulations.  On behalf of the President of the Council of the Inns of Court, the Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Service (BTAS) is responsible for appointing and administering Disciplinary Tribunals and other panels.

As a result of the Legal Services Act 2007, the Bar Standards Board has responsibility for disciplinary arrangements for barristers.  From 2010-13 an informal Memorandum of Understanding existed between COIC and the Bar Standards Board on disciplinary matters.  The Memorandum was replaced on 23 October 2013 by a formal Service Agreement between COIC and the Bar Standards Board which relates to the services that BTAS now provides in relation to disciplinary tribunals. 

How we are governed – The Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Services
  • Structure and Operation:
    • BTAS operates on behalf of the President of the Council of the Inns of Court (COIC). It handles the logistics of hearings, ensuring they are conducted fairly and efficiently.
    • Hearings can be held in public unless there’s a specific order for privacy. This openness allows for transparency, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in the legal profession.
  • Sanctions and Guidance:
    • BTAS has introduced new sanctions guidance, effective from January 1, 2022, which includes a more structured approach to sanctions, revised levels for fines and suspensions, and new categories for types of misconduct. This guidance aims to ensure consistency and proportionality in sanctions for misconduct, reflecting a broader review of disciplinary practices.
  • Public Access and Transparency:
    • Findings and sanctions from disciplinary hearings are published on the BTAS website, adhering to a publication policy. This information is available for public scrutiny, enhancing accountability within the profession. However, findings are typically removed after two years unless they involve significant sanctions like suspension or disbarment.
  • Critical Perspective:
    • While BTAS plays a crucial role in maintaining professional standards, discussions online reflect a broader societal and professional discourse on the nature of legal representation, the ethics of the profession, and the adequacy of regulatory mechanisms. This includes critiques on the structure of legal education, the economic aspects of legal practice, and the moral responsibilities of barristers.

On behalf of the President of the Council of the Inns of Court, the Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Service (BTAS) is responsible for appointing and administering:

The Bar Standards Board investigates and prosecutes breaches of the Handbook Core Duties and Rules of the Bar of England and Wales.

What we do – The Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Services

The Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Services is pivotal in upholding the disciplinary framework for barristers in England and Wales, ensuring that the profession adheres to high ethical and professional standards through a transparent and structured process of adjudication.

Check out our articles on Barristers, Direct Access Barristers, Inns of Court, Council of the Inns of Court, Bar Standards Board, Bar Council, Law Society, Law Commission, 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.

“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’

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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