New protocol sets out an informal resolution route if legal professionals have a concern about a judge’s behaviour
A new protocol has been published today to support legal professionals who wish to raise concerns informally about judicial behaviour.
This protocol formalises and strengthens an approach that has been in place for some time, giving legal professionals greater clarity on how concerns can be raised and addressed. Informal routes are often the most appropriate first step for less serious issues, allowing for early and proportionate resolution.
The protocol does not replace the formal complaints process. More serious concerns or instances where concerns remain after attempting informal resolution should continue to be referred to the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office (JCIO) which is responsible for formal complaints against judicial office holders.
The protocol for legal professionals is part of a package of measures to tackle bullying, harassment, discrimination and exclusionary behaviour, which include:
· A statement of expected behaviour setting clear standards and expectation.
· Mandatory training for leadership judges on identifying and addressing exclusionary behaviours.
· Wider training to support judges in recognising and challenging such behaviour in all settings.
· Making reporting routes, advice and resources on bullying, harassment and discrimination more accessible for judges and legal professionals.
· A joint statement between the Bar Council’s Commissioner for Conduct, the Lady Chief Justice and the Senior President of Tribunals, which sets out a shared commitment to tackling bullying, harassment, discrimination and exclusionary behaviour within the courts and tribunals, while respecting the constitutional separation between the Bar and the Judiciary.
Action on bullying, harassment, discrimination and exclusionary behaviour has been informed by findings from the Judicial Attitude Survey, the Bar Council’s Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination at the Bar 2023 report and the Independent Review of Bullying, Harassment and Sexual Harassment at the Bar 2025 led by Baroness Harriet Harman.
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.”