Judiciary launches package of measures to tackle "bullying" judges

The protocol has been issued by Lady Chief Justice Baroness Carr and the Senior President of Tribunals, Lord Justice Dingemans.

They said it would provide legal professionals with greater clarity on how concerns can be raised and addressed through informal routes, which were described as “often the most appropriate first step for less serious issues, allowing for early and proportionate resolution”.

More serious concerns, or cases where informal action has failed, should still be referred to the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office.

The protocol is part of a package of measures to tackle bullying, harassment, discrimination and exclusionary behaviour.

These include mandatory training for leadership judges on exclusionary behaviours, wider training in challenging such behaviour, and making reporting routes, advice and resources on bullying, harassment and discrimination more accessible for judges and legal professionals.

Lady Justice Whipple, lead judge for diversity and inclusion, leadership, development and wellbeing, said: ”The judiciary is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness and respect.

“While the majority of judicial office holders behave professionally and courteously, we take concerns about bullying, harassment and discrimination very seriously and are committed to providing clear, accessible routes for legal professionals working in our courts and tribunals to raise and resolve concerns about a judge’s behaviour.

“This protocol formalises and improves a process that has long existed – giving legal professionals clarity about how they can raise concerns informally.”