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The surname Watts has English origins and is of patronymic nature, meaning it was originally derived from a personal name. In this case, “Watts” is a short form or a variant of the name Walter. The name Walter itself has Germanic roots, derived from the Old Germanic elements “wald,” meaning “rule,” and “heri,” meaning “army” or “warrior.”
Over time, the name Walter evolved into various forms and spellings, and Watts became one of those variations. The addition of the “-s” is a common way of forming a patronymic surname, indicating “son of Walter.”
The surname Watts has been found in historical records dating back to the Middle Ages in England. It is a relatively common surname, and individuals bearing this name have played various roles in society over the centuries. Like many surnames, it may have spread and evolved as families moved to different regions, and different branches of the family adopted variations of the name.
- Immigration and Asylum Judge Sarah Pinder has come under scrutiny for her contributions to Free Movement, a website widely regarded as advocating for open borders, and her history of controversial rulings in immigration cases. The Daily Mail published an article Immigration judge behind series of controversial rulings contributed dozens of […]
- In a move that has sparked alarm among civil liberties advocates, the Labour government in the United Kingdom is reportedly advancing plans to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor social media for what it deems “concerning” content. According to a recent article from the Free Speech Union (FSU), this initiative […]
- In George Orwell’s seminal novel 1984, the Thought Police represent the ultimate tool of oppression, monitoring and punishing individuals not just for their actions but for their very thoughts. Orwell’s dystopian vision was a warning, a fictional exaggeration meant to provoke reflection on the dangers of authoritarian control. Yet, in […]
- His Honour Judge Andrew Gwyn Menary is a Circuit Judge and the Recorder of Liverpool. He is the most senior judge at Liverpool Crown Court. HHJ Menary was a judge involved in the trial and sentencing of the Southport rioters. His Honour Menary presided over the Pre Trial Plea Hearing […]
- In an unprecedented move to tackle the rising threat of converted firearms within the UK, a national amnesty has been initiated for specific types of blank-firing guns, commonly known as top-venting blank firers (TVBFs). The amnesty which started on the 3rd February 2025 and concludes on the 28th February, 2025, […]
- Mr Justice Goose is a British High Court judge in the King’s Bench Division. Sir Julian Nicholas Goose is known as The Honourable Mr Justice Goose and should be addressed in court as “My Lord”. Mr Justice Julian Nicholas Goose, a respected figure in the British judiciary, has made significant contributions to the […]
- The Open Justice Principle refers to the idea that justice should be administered openly, transparently and in a manner that is accessible to the public. Here are the key aspects of this principle: The Open Justice Principle is fundamental in democratic societies as it underpins the rule of law and […]
- The United Kingdom has three separate legal systems; one each for England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. This system operates within a constitutional framework where the powers are distributed among three branches: the Judiciary, the Legislature (Parliament), and the Executive (Government). This reflects its historical origins and the fact that […]
- His Honour Judge Kearl is a Circuit Judge and the Recorder of Leeds. He is the most senior judge at Leeds Crown Court. On the 5th of January 2025, Elon Musk re-posted on X an image/post of HHJ Kearl KC and commented “This clown looks like he bought that wig […]
- Mr Justice Williams is a British High Court judge in the Family Division. Sir David Basil Williams is known as The Honourable Mr Justice Williams and should be addressed in court as “My Lord”. Mr Justice Williams was born on the 18th June 1964 in Bedford and was educated at Cedars Upper School […]
- The UK’s criminal justice system is facing significant delays, with some trials being postponed until as late as 2028. A Sky News investigation at Leicester Crown Court revealed a criminal justice system described as chaotic and ineffective, characterised by: The judge then takes the unusual step of addressing the crisis […]
- The Solicitor General is the second law officer of the Crown in the United Kingdom, after the Attorney General. The role of the Solicitor General is to assist the Attorney General in their legal duties and responsibilities, and to act as their deputy in their absence. The Solicitor General is […]
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- A coverup is an attempt to conceal wrongdoing, mistakes, or embarrassing information, usually by those in positions of power or authority. It involves: Coverups can occur in various contexts, from government and corporate sectors to personal or organisational levels, often aiming to protect reputations, avoid legal consequences, or maintain power. […]
- The Government Legal Department (GLD) serves as the principal legal adviser to the UK Government. The core purpose of the GLD is to help the government to govern well, within the rule of law. The GLD is a non-ministerial government department and executive agency. The GLD has more than 3,000 employees, around 2,500 […]
- The “High Sheriff” is an independent non-political Royal appointment for a single year only. There are 55 High Sheriffs serving the counties of England and Wales. The post is unpaid (except for a nominal court attendance allowance), and the general expenses of the office are borne personally by the holder. […]
- The Civil Justice Council (CJC) is a non-departmental public body in the United Kingdom, specifically for England and Wales. Its primary role is to advise the Lord Chancellor, the Judiciary, and the Civil Procedure Rule Committee on matters related to civil justice and civil procedure. Here are some key points […]
- The concept of the “weaponization and politicisation of justice” generally refers to the misuse of legal systems or judicial processes for political ends. In the UK : It is vitally important in a democracy that individual judges and the judiciary as a whole are impartial and independent of all external […]
- A Circuit Judge in England and Wales is a judge who presides over cases in the Crown Court and County Courts. Bands worn over a violet robe and a short wig.When hearing criminal cases, circuit judges wear a red tippet (sash) over the left shoulder.When dealing with civil business, circuit […]
- A District Judge in England and Wales is a judicial officer who presides over lower court proceedings, primarily in the Magistrates’ Courts and County Courts. Magistrates’ Courts: County Courts: Other Duties: District Judges are legally qualified (they must be barristers or solicitors with at least seven years of rights of […]
- Deputy district judges such DDJ Nicholes are appointed by the Lord Chancellor after a fair and open competition administered by the Judicial Appointments Commission, and the statutory qualification is the same as that for appointment as a district judge – a minimum of five years’ right of audience in any […]
- Her Honour Judge Angela Rafferty KC handed Farhad Mohammad a three-year community order at the Old Bailey on the 23rd October 2024 after he was found guilty of two charges of funding terrorism by making money transfers to his nephew in Syria. HHJ Rafferty also ordered him to complete 250 […]
- Detention at His Majesty’s Pleasure is a term used in the United Kingdom for an indeterminate sentence where the offender is detained for an unspecified period. This kind of sentence is typically used for young offenders or those convicted of particularly serious crimes, where the length of detention is not […]
- His Honour Judge Jeremy Richardson KC (The Recorder of Sheffield) sentenced Grandfather Peter Lynch, who had pleaded guilty to a charge of violent disorder, to a jail term of two years and eight months on the 22nd August 2024. “You did not yourself attack any police officer, as far as […]
- The Judiciary of England and Wales use Microsoft 365 for email using the ejudiciary.net domain. This domain is connected to the Internet and accepts email via MX ejudiciary-net.mail.protection.outlook.com. This is public information. The rule of law is a fundamental constitutional principle which underpins an open, fair and peaceful society, where […]
- Lying refers to the act of deliberately telling or conveying something that is not true, with the intent to deceive or mislead someone. People, companies and institutions may lie for various reasons, such as shame, panic, or the desire to cover for someone else. Here are some key aspects of lying […]
- 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 […]
- 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 […]
- 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 […]
- A Licensed Conveyancer in the UK is a legal professional specialising in property law, particularly in the conveyancing process which involves transferring property from one party to another. Put simply, they deal with the legal and financial sides of buying and selling property and land. When considering hiring a Licensed […]
- 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 […]
- What is a salaried judge ? Salaried judges in the UK are full-time judges who are employed by the government to preside over cases in various courts and tribunals. They are appointed by the King on the recommendation of the Lord Chancellor, following a rigorous selection process that includes an […]
- Coming soon…..the detailed honest review of PM Property Lawyers. In the meantime use PM Law at your own peril ! Pm Property Lawyers Limited on Review Solicitors has a rating of 4.1/5 PM Property Lawyers have a rating of 2.9 on Trustpilot….. From Google Reviews of PM Property Lawyers “I […]
- 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 […]
- 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 […]
- 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 […]
- 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 […]
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- 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 […]
- The British Library and the other legal deposit libraries are entitled to copy UK published material from the internet for archiving under 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: These libraries […]
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- 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 […]
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- In R v O’Neill [2016] EWCA Crim 92, [2016] the Court of Appeal (Lord Justice Gross) had to determine what kinds of breach of a Family Law Act 1996 (FLA) non-molestation order might constitute an offence. The single Ground of Appeal was that the Judge misdirected the jury as to […]
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- 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. The streets also stink of weed. I gave up ringing 101 and attending local policing meetings. It’s pointless the police seem more than happy […]
- Dom Watts is an unlikely consumer champion. Yet, the dad of three from Croydon took on the power and might of Kodak – and won. His Kodakcamera protest Web site became the focus for a month-long campaign by consumers in search of fair play. Yesterday, Kodak caved in to pressure and agreed […]
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- The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) is an independent statutory body in the UK responsible for adjudicating on alleged breaches of the rules and regulations applicable to solicitors and their firms. At the SDT, our duty is to maintain the public’s confidence in the reputation of the solicitor profession for honesty, […]
- Facial Recognition (FR) technology can be used in a number of ways by the Police, including to prevent and detect crime, find wanted criminals, safeguard vulnerable people, keep the people safe. and to protect people from harm. The typical uses of FR technology for policing are: On the 29th October […]
- On Saturday 14th September 2024, Lincoln’s Inn once again opened its doors to the public for Open House Festival. This was a rare opportunity to see spaces usually closed to the general public and learn more about the history of one of London’s most fascinating estates – for free. Photos […]
- Jo Shiner was formally announced as Chief Constable of Sussex Police on the the 30th June 2020. On the 9th September 2024 an article was published on the BBC News Chief constable ‘retires’ for a month before return. It was also posted on the BBC Sussex X account @1.32pm Sussex […]
- Police and crime commissioners (PCCs) are directly elected politicians and are responsible for overseeing the non-operational aspects of policing. Their journey began in 2012 when they replaced the old police authorities. Since then, it is said that PCCs have been diligently working to secure an “efficient and effective” police force […]
- The Law Society which is officially known as The Law Society of England and Wales, serves as the professional association representing solicitors within England and Wales. Their vision is to promote, protect and support solicitors, the rule of law and justice in England and Wales. The Law Society has nothing to do […]
- The Bar Council of England and Wales is the representative body for barristers in England and Wales. It is said to be the voice of the barrister profession in England and Wales. The General Council of the Bar, is also commonly known as just the Bar Council. The Bar Council of […]
- Money laundering is an illegal activity that involves making large sums of money, which is often generated through criminal endeavours, appear as though they come from legitimate sources. Imagine this process as a sophisticated form of financial camouflage: the “dirty” money obtained from illicit activities (such as drug trafficking, underground sex […]
- Misconduct in public office is a common law offence in the United Kingdom that is defined as an individual who, being a public officer, acting in that capacity or under the pretence of such office, wilfully neglects to perform his duty and/or wilfully misconducts himself to such a degree as […]
- The Bar Standards Board (BSB) is the regulatory body for barristers in England and Wales. It was established under the Legal Services Act 2007, which brought in sweeping changes to the way legal services were regulated in England and Wales. The Bar Standards Board regulate the Bar in England & […]
- A complaint was made to the Bar Standards Board about The Secret Barrister on the 8th August 2024. On the 13th August 2024, The Bar Standards Board replied “…It is possible the person may not even be a barrister” Update 23rd August 2024 – Paul Embery wrote an article Crossing swords […]
- The Secret Barrister is an anonymous junior barrister practicing criminal law in England and Wales. Through a series of books and a popular blog, this enigmatic figure has shed light on the intricacies and flaws of the UK’s legal system, making complex legal issues accessible to the general public. The […]
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- The Bar Standards Board publish Past disciplinary findings on their website in accordance with their Publication Policy. The Bar Standards Board regulate the Bar in England & Wales in the public interest. The Bar Standards Board post new findings within seven days of a decision, but it can take up to 24 hours after […]
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- The rule of law is a fundamental principle of democratic societies that underpins the concept of justice and fairness. It refers to the idea that all individuals and institutions are subject to the same set of laws and procedures, regardless of their position or status. This means that the law […]
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- Islamophobia refers to an irrational fear, hostility, or prejudice against Islam, Muslims or those perceived to be Muslim. Here’s a breakdown based on various perspectives and definitions: You may be interested in our article What is Christophobia ? What is a Phobia ? A phobia is an extreme or irrational […]
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- “Gavin Howe has shown a distinct lack of manners and legal competence as a Family Law Barrister on multiple occasions that I have witnessed. Mr Howe could not even get his client’s name or marital status right during Financial Remedy proceedings. In my opinion, Mr Howe attempted to deliberately mislead […]
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- The Gambling Act 2005 is an act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Its primary purpose is to regulate and control all forms of gambling within England, Wales, and Scotland. Enacted in 2005, this legislation aimed to consolidate existing gambling laws while introducing essential updates to address the evolving […]
- The Family Justice Council (FJC) is a non-departmental public body in the United Kingdom that plays a crucial role in improving family court outcomes. A list of members is published on the FJC website. The Chair is Sir Andrew McFarlane, President of the Family Division. The link to the Code […]
- An Immigration Tribunal Judge plays a crucial role in the UK legal system, specifically within the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum). Let’s delve into their responsibilities, qualifications, and the process of handling appeals. Role and Responsibilities The First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum) is administered by HM Courts & Tribunals Service. Its primary functions include: The Judge’s […]
- The title Chief Magistrate holds historical and contemporary significance in various legal and governmental systems across the world. The Senior District Judge (Chief Magistrate) of England and Wales, as they are known, has a leadership responsibility for the 300-or-so District Judges (Magistrates’ Court) (DJMCs), and Deputy DJMCs across England and […]
- Here are a few examples of dodgy judges, otherwise known as rogue judges, that have been dismissed, disciplined, resigned or been badly behaved. Some judges even managed to get criminal convictions. “Publicity is the very soul of justice. . . . It keeps the judge himself, while trying, under trial….Where […]
- Solicitors from Hell (www.solicitorsfromhell.co.uk) was a website that gained notoriety for allowing users to post negative reviews and complaints about solicitors and legal professionals. Created by Rick Kordowski, the site became a platform for airing grievances and sharing experiences related to legal services. However, it also faced legal challenges due […]
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- “It is not merely of some importance but is of fundamental importance that justice should not only be done, but should manifestly and undoubtedly be seen to be done” Lord Hewart In the case of R v Sussex Justices, Ex parte McCarthy [1924] 1 KB 256, Mr. McCarthy was convicted […]
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- Lady Justice, often depicted as a graceful figure holding a sword, scales, and sometimes wearing a blindfold, is an iconic symbol of the judicial system. Her image evokes a sense of impartiality, fairness, and the pursuit of justice. Through the ages, Lady Justice has come to embody the ideals of […]
- The Legal Services Board (LSB) is an independent regulatory body that oversees the legal services sector in England and Wales. Its role is multifaceted, encompassing standards-setting, approval, regulation of legal services providers, and consumer guidance. Here are the key aspects of the LSB: History and Role of the Legal Services […]
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- A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) is a powerful tool introduced in 2014 under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. These orders empower local authorities to address anti-social behaviour (ASB) in specific public spaces within their jurisdictions. PSPOs aim to ensure that public spaces can be enjoyed without […]
- The Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales, Dame Sue Carr, has created a new Transparency and Open Justice Board. Justice must be done, and it must be seen to be done. The public has a right to know what happens in their Courts and Tribunals. Transparency & Open Justice […]
- A paralegal is a legal professional who performs tasks that require knowledge of legal concepts but does not hold the full expertise of a lawyer with an admission to practice law. These skilled individuals play a crucial role in supporting lawyers and law firms across various legal domains. Tasks and […]
- A judgment, also known as a judicial decision or court ruling, is the final decision made by a court of law in a legal case or dispute. It represents the court’s official decision on the matters brought before it and typically resolves the legal issues in question. It is the […]
- Adverse inference is a legal principle that plays a significant role in various areas of law, including criminal, civil, and family law. It arises when a party remains silent or withholds evidence, leading the court to draw a negative inference. The CPS publish important guidance on the law and practice surrounding adverse inferences from a […]
- A Lucas Direction, stemming from the case of R v Lucas (Ruth) [1981] EWCA Crim J0519-8, is a legal principle used in criminal trials to guide the jury on how to consider the evidence of lies told by a defendant. The case of Regina v Lucas (Ruth) is a landmark […]
- The Inns of Court are professional associations for barristers in England and Wales. They are responsible for the training and qualification of barristers, who are the specialised courtroom advocates in the British legal system. Every barrister must belong to one of these Inns. London’s Four Inns of Court are renowned […]
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- The Guide to Judicial Conduct – Revised July 2023, published by the judiciary, is intended to assist judges, tribunal members, coroners and magistrates, in relation to their conduct. The Guide to Judicial Conduct, amongst other things, states that judicial office holders are expected to display diligence and care in the […]
- The President of the King’s Bench Division is a highly esteemed position in the United Kingdom’s judicial system. The President of the King’s Bench Division (KBD) is responsible for the deployment and organisation of the work of the largest of the three High Court Divisions. At its full complement the […]
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- The King’s Counsel (KC) is a prestigious title awarded to senior barristers and advocates who have rights of audience in the higher courts of England and Wales who have also demonstrated the competencies in the Competency Framework to a standard of excellence. King’s Counsel are appointed from amongst practising advocates […]
- The Crimestoppers hotline to report corruption in the Metropolitan Police has now been launched nationwide. 2,878 online reports and calls were received between November 2022 and February 2024 in relation to officers and staff at the Metropolitan Police Service. It has resulted in 728 Met Police led investigations. ‘Its success […]
- Sussex Police serves East and West Sussex and the city of Brighton & Hove which is an area of about 3,780km. A resident population of 1.65m people grows significantly with millions of visitors, holidaymakers, students, seasonal workers and the 46 million passengers who travel annually through Gatwick Airport. Sussex Police […]
- In short, the answer is yes anyone can criticise a judge or court. The judiciary and courts are quite rightly not immune to public criticism and comment. The rule of law applies to everyone and no one should be above the law. Scandalising the judiciary, also known as scandalising the […]
- In the realm of law and order, the term “unlawful” denotes actions or behaviours that run counter to established laws, regulations, or ethical standards within a given society. It serves as a fundamental concept in delineating the boundaries of acceptable conduct, guiding individuals, institutions, and authorities in upholding justice and […]
- Auditing Britain is a popular YouTube channel that had 312K subscribers and 720 videos (As of 28th Jan 2025). Auditors such as Auditing Britain, it is said, use “security concerns surrounding the filming of staff and premises, alongside limited powers to prevent it…..They are also well-versed in their own rights […]
- Fraud is a criminal offence in the UK and can result in serious penalties. The relevant legislation in the UK is the Fraud Act 2006. Under this Act, it is an offense to dishonestly make a false representation with the intention of causing a gain or loss. This could include making […]
- Harry and Meghan’s ‘provocative’ new Sussex.com website ‘is a betrayal of their agreement with the late Queen’ THE OFFICE OF PRINCE HARRY & MEGHAN THE DUKE & DUCHESS OF SUSSEX The Duke of Sussex is fifth in line to the throne and the younger son of The King and Diana, […]
- HM Courts and Tribunal Service have published a Fact sheet entitled Single Justice Service on their website. The Fact Sheet is worryingly described as “Promotional material“. The Single Justice Service (SJS) allows magistrates’ courts to deal with minor offences in a way that’s quicker, more straightforward and more efficient, while […]
- Injustice is a pervasive and complex concept that transcends geographical, cultural, and temporal boundaries, manifesting in various forms that deeply impact individuals and communities. At its core, injustice refers to the violation of principles of fairness, equity, and moral rightness within social, political, economic, and legal contexts. The intricate nature […]
- The Justice Committee is a cross-party group of MPs appointed by the House of Commons to examine the policies and spending of the Ministry of Justice and associated public bodies. This includes the courts, legal aid, prisons, probation and the rule of law. It also advises on sentencing guidelines. The […]
- Private prosecution refers to the initiation of criminal proceedings by a private individual or organisation rather than a public authority such as the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in the UK. In the UK, private prosecutions have a long history and are enshrined in common law, allowing individuals and organisations to […]
- The Lady Chief Justice is the most senior judge in England and Wales, and is responsible for the administration of justice. The salary of the Lady Chief Justice is £312,510. Dame Sue Carr was sworn in as the first Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales on the 1st October […]
- The Royal Courts of Justice are a grand court building situated in The Strand London England which are located opposite to the Temple Bar Memorial Pillar. The Royal Courts of Justice serves as the central court of the High Court of Justice and the Court of Appeal. His Majesty King […]
- Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 grants police officers the power to direct a person to leave a specified area for up to 48 hours if certain conditions are met. The Met Police were recently criticised for their use of Section 35 powers to arrest […]
- The Bar Standards Board published disciplinary findings against barrister Mr Thomas David Davidson on the 21st November 2023. Thomas Davidson, a practising barrister, behaved in a way which was likely to diminish the trust and confidence which the public places in him or in the profession, in that, on 7 […]
- The Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman (JACO) is a UK government organisation that provides an independent review of complaints about the conduct of judicial office holders and the judicial appointments process. JACO works with the Ministry of Justice and can look into complaints about how investigating bodies have handled allegations […]
- The Senior President of Tribunals is the independent and statutory leader of the tribunal judiciary. The office of the Senior President of Tribunals is independent of both the Executive and the Chief Justices, and was established under the Tribunals Courts and Enforcement Act 2007. Just as the Lady Chief Justice […]
- Section 41 of the Criminal Justice Act 1925 (CJA 1925) makes it an offence to take any photograph, make or attempt to make any portrait or sketch of a justice or a witness in, or a party to, any proceedings before the court, either in the courtroom or its precincts. […]
- Judges have a duty to act impartially and without bias. This duty is enshrined in common law principles and is essential for upholding the rule of law. Recusal is an important ethical and legal principle in the justice system, designed to ensure that legal proceedings are conducted fairly and impartially, […]
- The term McKenzie Friend stems from the landmark case of McKenzie v McKenzie in 1970 (McKenzie v McKenzie [1970] 3 WLR 472 CA), where a husband sought assistance from a non-legally qualified friend to represent him in court during divorce proceedings. The Court of Appeal, in their judgment made in […]
- ULEZ is London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s much-hated and deeply unpopular road charge, which has seen protests, violence and vandalism (criminal damage) throughout Greater London. The ULEZ scheme was expanded to cover all of Greater London on Tuesday 29th August 2023. Ulez charges (fines) older, more polluting vehicles £12.50 a day […]
- His Honour Judge Michael Slater, fell asleep during a trial and was subsequently investigated by the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office who issued a disciplinary statement on the 29th August 2023. HHJ Michael Slater, a barrister, was appointed to be a circuit judge in November 2016 and deployed to the north […]
- Libel and slander are both forms of defamation, which involve making a false statement about someone that damages their reputation. Libel is a defamatory statement that is written. Slander is a defamatory statement that is oral. In the United Kingdom, the laws around libel and slander are governed by the […]
- The National Security Online Information Team (NSOIT) at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology was allegedly established to bring together cross-government monitoring and analysis capabilities. The National Security Online Information Team (NSOIT) was previously known as the Counter Disinformation Unit (CDU). Check out the article on the Counter Disinformation […]
- The Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA) is a law that sets out rules and regulations regarding the use, storage, and sharing of personal data in the United Kingdom (UK). The Data Protection Act 2018 was introduced to replace the Data Protection Act 1998, and it incorporates the General Data Protection […]
- The Ministry of Injustice have a number of domains names that can be used to access the MOI and other websites. All domains are used for a lawful purpose in line with the relevant domain registry rules. The domains are clearly not being used to commit fraud or deceive the […]
- On the 4th July 2023 at 9.30am a McKenzie Friend and I went through “strict” airport style security at Horsham County Court in Hurst Rd, Horsham RH12 2ET. Pockets were emptied into a tray and my laptop bag was searched by a Security guard using a torch taped to a […]
- His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) independently assesses and reports, in the public interest, on the effectiveness and efficiency of police forces and fire & rescue services. “Promoting improvements in policing and fire & rescue services to make everyone safer” HMICFRS ask the questions that […]
- The Royal Coat of Arms appear in every courtroom in England and Wales (with the exception of the Magistrates’ court in the City of London*), to demonstrate that justice comes from the monarch and that a law court is part of the Royal Court. The presence of the Royal Arms […]
- The Lord Chief Justice is the most senior judge in England and Wales, and is responsible for the administration of justice. Since the 1st October 2023 Dame Sue Carr is the first Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales. The role of The Lord Chief Justice (LCJ) is to oversee the […]
- A kangaroo court is a term used to describe a judicial or quasi-judicial proceeding that lacks fairness, impartiality, or due process. It refers to a court that operates outside the boundaries of established legal principles and often serves the interests of those in power rather than providing justice. Lord Reed […]
- In a world which relies so heavily on email, mistakes such as sending an email to the wrong person can and often happen. Sending an email containing personal information to the wrong person could constitute a data breach according to GDPR. Personal data is defined within Article 4(1) GDPR 2018 […]
- The Malicious Communications Act 1988 is a law in the United Kingdom that makes it illegal to send threatening, abusive, or offensive messages to others. The act was introduced in response to growing concerns about the rise of online harassment and abuse, and was designed to provide law enforcement with […]
- In the first annual assessment of policing in England and Wales, Andy Cooke QPM DL who is His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary, has called for major reform, including new legal powers for the inspectors of constabulary. Andy Cooke has described widespread and systemic failures in both the police and […]
- Andrew Easteal formerly known as His Honour Andrew Easteal has been removed from office by the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office (JCIO) for misconduct after he ‘deliberately’ deleted data which was of police interest. The Lord Chancellor, with the Lord Chief Justice’s agreement, has removed His Honour Judge Andrew Easteal from […]
- Byelaws play a crucial role in regulating various aspects of society in the United Kingdom. Byelaws are made by local authorities and public bodies, including some private companies or charities, to address specific issues that are not covered by national legislation. Byelaws are made using powers granted by the relevant Act […]
- Why do the police make up the law ? Is ignorance of the law by a Police Officer a reasonable excuse ? Check out the latest Police News. The Gwent Auditor / TGA posted the following video on the 1st June 2023 about a visit to the GLAA – Gangmasters […]
- In England and Wales, judicial review is a legal process through which the courts review the lawfulness of decisions made by public bodies. It is a mechanism that allows individuals or organizations to challenge the actions, decisions, or omissions of public authorities to ensure that they have acted within the […]
- A Crown Servant, in the United Kingdom, is an individual who is employed by the Crown or works within the civil service of the government. The term “Crown servant” is not used in Scotland, where the equivalent term is “public servant”. Crown Servants encompass a diverse range of professionals. They […]
- The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Justice is responsible for the country’s justice system, ensuring that it is fair, transparent, and accessible to all. The Lord Chancellor, The Right Honourable Shabana Mahmood KC MP, heads the Ministry of Justice as the Secretary of State for Justice. The Ministry of Justice role […]
- The Statute of Limitations in the United Kingdom (UK) establishes time limits within which legal actions can be brought against individuals or entities for various offenses. These limitations aim to strike a balance between the interests of justice and the need for legal certainty. In the UK, each jurisdiction—England and […]
- The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system of the United Kingdom and was established in 1986. The CPS is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases that have been investigated by the police and other investigative organisations in England and Wales. The CPS is independent […]
- The Keeper or Master of the Rolls and Records of the Chancery of England, also known as the Master of the Rolls, is the President of the Civil Division of the Court of Appeal of England and Wales. The Master of the Rolls is a senior judge and is second in seniority in England and Wales only […]
- The offence of wasting police time is committed when a person causes any wasteful employment of the police. Wasting Police Time – section 5(2) of the Criminal Law Act 1967 applies :- Penalties for concealing offences or giving false information. (2)Where a person causes any wasteful employment of the police […]
- Stalking and harassment is when someone repeatedly behaves in a way that makes you feel scared, distressed or threatened. Stalking and harassment is a criminal offence. There are different types of stalking and harassment and anyone can be a victim. Stalking and harassment are offences under the Protection from Harassment […]
- The Slip Rule is a legal tool in England and Wales that allows judges to correct typographical or other errors in court orders or judgments. The Slip Rule is included in both the Family Procedure Rules and the Civil Procedure Rules. This article will provide an overview of the Slip […]
- HHJ Farquhar was appointed as a Deputy District Judge in 1999, as a District Judge in 2005 and as a Recorder in 2009. Stuart Alastair Farquhar was appointed a circuit judge, assigned to the South Eastern Circuit, based at Brighton County Court, with effect from October 9, 2013. Judge Farquhar […]
- HHJ Bedford was appointed as a Deputy District Judge on the North Eastern Circuit in May 2002, a District Judge in 2007 and a Circuit Judge on the 10th April 2013. “HM the Queen has appointed Robin Steven Bedford, to be a District Judge on the advice of the Lord […]
Read the reviews of Junior Sussex Barrister Gavin Howe and Legal 500 Junior Barrister Eleanor Battie
“He is awful, underhanded and should not be practising law!”
“She is a one-woman legal A Team”
#TwoTierPolicing by the Met Police and West Midlands Police