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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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

Categories
Judiciary Legal Analysis

Become a Judge !

Become a Judge

The Judicial Careers Portal provides all judges and legal practitioners a platform and comprehensive resources to explore future judicial roles. You can find upcoming vacancies and events along with support material and training that includes judicial shadowing and mentoring and seminars by using the portal.

The role of the Judicial Diversity Committee is to support the Lady Chief Justice in encouraging greater personal and professional diversity within the judiciary. The Committee has decided to develop a portal for judges and members of all legal professions who may be interested in judicial careers.

Lady Justice Whipple – Judge of the Court of Appeal of England and Wales

Further information about the judiciary can be found on the Judiciary UK Site.

DDJ Nicholes
Become a judge like DDJ Nicholes or HHJ Farquhar !

Judicial Appointments Commission

The Judicial Appointments Commission selects candidates for judicial office in England and Wales, and for some tribunals with UK-wide powers. It is our statutory duty to select people on merit, who are of good character. We believe the judiciary should reflect the society it serves, and we aim to attract diverse applicants from a wide field. We work closely with a range of organisations to promote vacancies to all those who are eligible.

JAC Vacancies

Magistrates

Magistrates are recruited by local advisory committees. Recruitment is based on the needs of the courts in each area. The need to recruit new magistrates is generally reviewed on an annual basis. Applicants are expected to be living or working in, or reasonably close to, the area in which they wish to serve. If you are interested in becoming a magistrate, please click on the link.

Magistrate Vacancies

Videos from the Judiciary

Pride Month: A conversation with Tribunal Judge Trueman, Tribunal Judge Brownlee & Simon Rodgers JP

The judiciary is made up of judges, magistrates, tribunal members, and coroners. For more information, see our website http://www.judiciary.uk.
Pride Month: A conversation with Tribunal Judge Trueman, Tribunal Judge Brownlee & Simon Rodgers JP
Pride Month: A conversation with Tribunal Judge Trueman, Tribunal Judge Brownlee & Simon Rodgers JP
The judiciary is made up of judges, magistrates, tribunal members, and ...
University of West London students visit the Royal Courts of Justice
University of West London students visit the Royal Courts of Justice
The judiciary is made up of judges, magistrates, tribunal members, and ...
Judicial Reverse Mentoring Scheme 2025: Reflections
Judicial Reverse Mentoring Scheme 2025: Reflections
The judiciary is made up of judges, magistrates, tribunal members, and ...
Bridging the Bar 2025: Interview with Mali Pink and Bella Cordwell (with captions)
Bridging the Bar 2025: Interview with Mali Pink and Bella Cordwell (with captions)
The judiciary is made up of judges, magistrates, tribunal members, and ...
Bridging the Bar 2025: Interview with Hannah Williams and Amber Mason
Bridging the Bar 2025: Interview with Hannah Williams and Amber Mason
The judiciary is made up of judges, magistrates, tribunal members, and ...
UK Disability Month 2025: Interview with Tribunal Member Emma Geary
UK Disability Month 2025: Interview with Tribunal Member Emma Geary
The judiciary is made up of judges, magistrates, tribunal members, and ...

Other Useful Links

Latest Judicial Appointments

  • Circuit Judge Appointment: Kelly
    The King has appointed Richard Kelly to be a Circuit Judge on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, the Right Honourable Alex Chalk KC MP and the former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, the Right Honourable The Lord Burnett of Maldon.  The former Lord Chief Justice deployed him to the South Eastern Circuit, […]
  • Circuit Judge Appointment: Humphreys
    The King has appointed Gareth Humphreys to be a Circuit Judge on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, the Right Honourable Alex Chalk KC MP and the former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, the Right Honourable The Lord Burnett of Maldon.  The former Lord Chief Justice deployed him to the Wales Circuit, based […]
  • Circuit Judge Appointment: Power
    The King has appointed Alexia Power to be a Circuit Judge on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, the Right Honourable Alex Chalk KC MP and the former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, the Right Honourable The Lord Burnett of Maldon.  The former Lord Chief Justice deployed her to the South Eastern Circuit, […]
  • District Bench Retirement: Avent
    District Judge Ian Michael Avent retires from the District Bench with effect from 1 November 2023. Background information District Judge Avent was admitted as a Solicitor in 1984. He was appointed a Deputy District Judge in 1998 and a District Judge in 2003. He was a Civil Course Tutor at the Judicial College from 2010 […]
  • Regional Employment Judge Retirement: Findlay
    Regional Employment Judge Lorna Anne Findlay retires with effect from 1 November 2023. Background information Regional Employment Judge Findlay was called to the Bar (Middle Temple) in 1987. She was appointed a part-time Chairman of the Employment Tribunals in 2002, a salaried Employment Judge in 2010 and served as a Diversity and Community Relations Judge […]

Check out the articles on Dodgy Judges, His Honour Now His Dishonour, His Honour Judge Michael Slater, His Honour Judge Martin Davis, HHJ Farquhar, HHJ Bedford, DDJ Nicholes 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
Criminal Justice Family Law Law

The Courts of England and Wales

Court Building

The jurisdiction of the courts in England and Wales refers to the legal authority or power that they have to hear and determine certain types of legal cases. The jurisdiction of the courts is determined by a combination of legislation, legal precedent, and court rules.

In England and Wales, there are several levels of courts with varying degrees of jurisdiction. These include:

Magistrates’ Courts: These are the lowest level of courts in England and Wales and they have jurisdiction over a wide range of criminal offenses, such as minor assaults, theft, and driving offenses. They also have limited jurisdiction in civil cases, such as small claims and some family law matters.

County Courts: These courts have jurisdiction over a wider range of civil cases, including contract disputes, personal injury claims, and landlord-tenant disputes. They also have some limited jurisdiction in family law matters, such as divorce and child custody.

Crown Court: This court has jurisdiction over the most serious criminal offenses, such as murder, rape, and drug trafficking. It also has some limited jurisdiction over civil cases.

High Court: This is the highest level of court in England and Wales, and it has jurisdiction over the most complex civil and criminal cases. The High Court has several divisions, including the Family Division, the Chancery Division, and the King’s Bench Division.

The Supreme Court: This is the final court of appeal in the UK for civil cases, and for criminal cases from England, Wales and Northern Ireland

In addition to these courts, there are also specialist courts in England and Wales, such as the Employment Tribunal, the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, and the Mental Health Tribunal, which have jurisdiction over specific areas of law.

It is important to understand the jurisdiction of the courts in England and Wales when bringing a legal case, as it determines which court has the power to hear and determine your case. It is advisable to seek legal advice if you are unsure about which court has jurisdiction over your case.

Find contact details and information on courts and tribunals in England and Wales, and some non-devolved tribunals in Scotland.

Check out our related articles on Judiciary, Law Society, Solicitors, Barristers, Bar Council of England and Wales, Bar Standards Board, Solicitors Regulation Authority, 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.

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 Analysis

What is Case Law ?

Case Law

Case law in England and Wales, therefore, not only provides a body of law but also a dynamic process through which legal principles are debated, refined, and applied in practice, reflecting both legal tradition and societal change.

In England and Wales, case law refers to the body of legal precedents established by the decisions of higher courts, such as the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Case law is based on the principle of stare decisis, which means that lower courts are bound to follow the decisions of higher courts on similar legal issues.

When a higher court makes a ruling on a case, that ruling becomes a legal precedent that can be relied upon by lower courts in future cases. This means that judges in lower courts are obligated to follow the principles established in previous cases, unless they can distinguish the facts of their case from those of the earlier cases, or unless the earlier case was overruled by a higher court.

Case law is an important part of the legal system, as it helps to ensure consistency and predictability in legal decision-making. By following established precedents, judges can apply the law in a fair and consistent manner, and parties to a case can have a better understanding of the likely outcome.

In addition to the precedents established by higher courts, there is also a body of case law established by lower courts and tribunals. While these decisions do not have the same level of authority as those of higher courts, they can still be persuasive and may be relied upon in future cases.

Breakdown of Significance and Function

  1. Common Law System: England and Wales operate under a common law system, where case law is fundamentally important. Unlike civil law systems, which rely primarily on codified statutes, common law systems develop legal principles through decisions made by judges.
  2. Precedent (Stare Decisis): This is the principle of stare decisis, which means “to stand by decisions”. In this system, the decisions of higher courts bind lower courts, and thus, once a legal principle is established in a case, it should generally be followed in subsequent cases involving similar facts or legal issues.
  3. Hierarchy of Courts: The structure of the judiciary in England and Wales impacts how precedent operates:
    • Supreme Court (formerly the House of Lords Judicial Committee): Decisions here set binding precedents for all courts.
    • Court of Appeal: Its decisions bind all lower courts but can be overturned by the Supreme Court.
    • High Court: Decisions bind courts below it but can be influenced by the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court rulings.
    • Lower Courts: Must follow the precedents set by higher courts.
  4. Development of Law: Case law allows for the evolution of law over time. Judges interpret legislation, fill in gaps where statutes are silent, and adapt law to new situations or changes in society’s values.
  5. Reporting and Access: Significant decisions are reported, often in official law reports or legal databases, allowing legal professionals to access and cite them. The availability of detailed legal judgments helps in understanding the reasoning behind legal principles.
  6. Equity: Alongside common law, the legal system in England and Wales includes equity, which developed through case law to provide remedies where common law was inadequate. Courts of Equity (like the Chancery Division) provide judgments based on fairness, which also contributes to case law.
  7. Limitations: While precedent provides consistency, there are mechanisms for overturning or distinguishing precedents when they are perceived as outdated or unsuitable, ensuring flexibility in the law.
  8. Influence: English case law has significantly influenced legal systems globally, especially in countries that were once part of the British Empire, where principles of English case law are often embedded in their judicial systems.

Case Law Online

You can view and download judgments and tribunal decisions from 2001 at the National Archive.

Using the British and Irish Legal Information Institute (BAILII), based at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, you can find British and Irish case law & legislation, European Union case law, Law Commission reports, and other law-related British and Irish material.

Overall, case law plays a critical role in the development and interpretation of the law. It helps to ensure consistency and predictability in legal decision-making, and provides guidance and direction for judges and legal professionals.

Check out our related articles on Law Society, Solicitors, Barristers, 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.

Latest Articles ↓

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

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

Categories
Law Legal Analysis

Legal Deposit Libraries

Legal Deposit Library

The British Library and the other legal deposit libraries are entitled to copy UK published material from the internet for archiving under legal deposit.

If you publish anything in the UK and Ireland, you need to give one copy to the British Library. This system, called legal deposit, has existed in English law since 1662. It was updated in 2013 to include electronic publications.

British Library – Legal Deposit

Legal deposit libraries in the United Kingdom are also known as “copyright libraries” or “legal deposit institutions” Here are the six legal deposit libraries:

  1. The British Library – Located in London, it is the national library of the United Kingdom and one of the largest libraries in the world.
  2. Bodleian Library – Part of the University of Oxford, it is one of the oldest libraries in Europe.
  3. Cambridge University Library – The central library of the University of Cambridge, known for its extensive collections.
  4. National Library of Scotland – Located in Edinburgh, it serves as Scotland’s legal deposit library.
  5. National Library of Wales (Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru) – Situated in Aberystwyth, it holds the national collection of Welsh and Welsh-related materials.
  6. Trinity College Library, Dublin – Although located in Ireland, it was included in the legal deposit system when Ireland was part of the United Kingdom. This arrangement continues post-independence for works published in the UK.

These libraries are protected by law to ensure that there is a complete collection of the UK’s published output preserved for posterity.

The Legal Deposit Libraries Act 2003 extended the legal deposit requirement to include non-print works, such as websites, blogs, and other digital and multimedia publications ensuring that modern forms of publication are also archived.

Archiving of UK websites is governed by legal deposit law:

The legal deposit libraries use web crawling software wherever possible, especially when collecting for the UK Web Archive. Web crawling is an automated process used to collect content and metadata that is available without access restriction on the open web. Crawled websites and material are preserved in the legal deposit libraries’ web archive. We may also use manual or other methods of downloading content and metadata when necessary.

Legal deposit and web archiving – British Library

The UK Web Archive is a collection of archived UK websites created by the Legal Deposit libraries in the UK as part of their commitment to preserve web resources permanently for future researchers. 

The UK Government Web Archive captures, preserves and make accessible UK central government information published on the web. The Web Archive includes videos, tweets, images and websites dating from 1996 to the present day.

There are a number of other internet archives including The Wayback Machine which is a digital archive of the global World Wide Web and other information on the Internet. It was created by the Internet Archive, a non-profit organization based in San Francisco.

“What goes on the internet, stays on the internet forever !”

Check out our related articles on Rule of Law, Open Justice, What is Law, Is the Law Black and White ?, Abuse of Process, What Does Lady Justice Symbolise ?, McKenzie Friend, Can a Judge Direct a Jury to Find a Defendant Not Guilty ?, Law Society, Law Commission, McKenzie Friend Right of Audience, Solicitors, Solicitors Regulation Authority, Barristers, Bar Council of England and Wales, Bar Standards Board, Contra Mundum, R v Sussex Justices, Police Impartiality 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.

Categories
Law Legal Analysis

E-Scooters and the Law

E-Scooter

Owning an Electric Scooter (e-scooter) in the UK is legal, but riding one on public roads or pavements remains illegal unless it’s part of a government-approved rental scheme. These rental schemes are operational in various cities under trial conditions, allowing users to rent and ride e-scooters legally on certain roads and cycle lanes but not on pavements.

Study reveals ‘alarming number’ of e-scooter riders and cyclists ignoring law in London

E-Scooter Law

It is against the law to use a privately owned Electric Scooter (e-scooter) on public land. If you use an e-scooter illegally :-

  • you could face a fine
  • you could get penalty points on your licence
  • the e-scooter could be impounded

E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles (Powered Transporter) under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 which means the rules that apply to motor vehicles, also apply to e-scooters including the need to have a licence, insurance and tax. Electric scooters are also classed as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs) under UK law.

If you’re using an e-scooter in public in an antisocial manner, you can also risk the e-scooter being seized under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002.

It is an offence to use e-scooters on the pavement. In Section 72 of the Highway Act 1835 it is an offence to ride on, or to lead or draw a carriage on a pavement. This rule applies almost all vehicles, with only legal exceptions for mobility scooters and wheelchairs.

If you cause serious harm to another person whilst riding an e-scooter the incident will be investigated in the same way it would if you were riding a motorcycle or driving a car. 

E-scooter Trials

The government has begun trials of e-scooters. Trials are for approved rental e-scooters only. The existing rules for private e-scooters and other powered transporters have not changed.

E-scooter trials are taking place in these areas:

  • Bournemouth and Poole
  • Buckinghamshire (Aylesbury, High Wycombe and Princes Risborough)
  • Cambridge
  • Essex (Basildon, Braintree, Chelmsford and Colchester)
  • Gloucestershire (Cheltenham and Gloucester)
  • Liverpool
  • London (participating boroughs)
  • Milton Keynes
  • Newcastle
  • North and West Northamptonshire (Northampton, Kettering, Corby, Wellingborough, Rushden and Higham Ferrers)
  • North Devon
  • Norwich
  • Oxfordshire (Oxford)
  • Salford
  • Slough
  • Solent (Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton)
  • Somerset (Taunton, Minehead and Yeovil)
  • West Midlands (Birmingham)
  • West of England Combined Authority (Bristol and Bath)

The maximum speed for an e-scooter is 15.5mph.

Trial e-scooters are limited to this speed and in some areas e-scooters may be limited to a lower maximum speed.

E-scooter trials: guidance for users

E-scooters must have motor insurance, but you do not need to arrange this as this will be provided by your e-scooter rental operator.

You may use a trial e-scooter on the road (except motorways) and in cycle lanes.

You must not use an e-scooter on the pavement.

E-scooters do not need to be registered, display registration plates or pay vehicle excise duty.

Licence Requirements

You must have the category Q entitlement on your driving licence to use an e-scooter. A full or provisional UK licence for categories AM, A or B includes entitlement for category Q. If you have one of these licences, you can use an e-scooter.

If you have a provisional licence, you do not need to show L plates when using a rental e-scooter.

If you have an overseas driving licence, you can use an e-scooter if you:

  • have a valid full licence from an EU or European Economic Area (EEA) country (so long as this does not prohibit you from driving low-speed mopeds and motorcycles)
  • have a valid full licence from another country that entitles you to drive a small vehicle (for example, cars, mopeds or motorcycles) and you entered the UK within the last 12 months

E-Scooter Guidance and Links

The Department for Transport (DOT) has published Guidance E-scooter trials.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and DOT have also published Guidance on Powered Transporters.

City of London Police published Advice on using e-scooters.

The Metropolitan Police has also published Advice on using e-scooters.

Halfords, who are a major retailer of e-scooters, published Are Electric Scooters Legal?.

E-Scooters and Drug Dealers

Drugs are being openly sold on the streets by drug dealers with seemingly little to no action being taken by the Police to deal with this. See our article Drug Dealing on the Street.

Drug Dealers are usually illegally riding a speed modified e-scooter or e-bike and have their face covered. An e-scooter, it would seem, are the perfect means of transport to evade arrest.

No one should be above the law. Everyone, no matter how wealthy or powerful, are subject to the Rule of Law.

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

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

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

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

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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.

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

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

Categories
Legal Analysis Legal Professionals

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.

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.

Rule of Law - Open Justice - Policing By Consent