Family Presiding Judges named for South Eastern (London) and Northern Circuits

The Lady Chief Justice, with the concurrence of the Lord Chancellor, has appointed Family Presiding Judges for the South Eastern (London) and Northern Circuits.

Mr Justice MacDonald, a High Court judge since 2015, has been appointed for a period of four years, with effect from 7 March 2024, to the South Eastern (London) Circuit where he will succeed Mr Justice Francis.

Mrs Justice Knowles, a High Court judge since 2017, has been appointed for a period of four years, with effect from 7 March 2024, to the Northern Circuit where she will succeed Mr Justice MacDonald.

Family Presiding Judges play a key leadership role in the Family Courts in their respective Circuits and work closely with their fellow Presiding Judges.