JCIO 05/25

A spokesperson for the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office said:

Mr Justice Keehan, on behalf of the Lady Chief Justice and with the Lord Chancellor’s agreement, has issued Mrs Christine Parry JP of the Merseyside Bench with formal advice for misconduct.

Facts

On appointment, magistrates sign a declaration and undertaking, which includes a commitment to maintain the dignity, standing and good reputation of the magistracy. The Guide to Judicial Conduct reminds office holders to be courteous, patient, tolerant and to respect the dignity of all.

A staff member complained that Mrs Parry had acted towards them in a rude and dismissive tone in the presence of other magistrates, in particular by declining to listen to matters raised by the staff member in court. The staff member complained that in doing so, Mrs Parry caused them emotional upset and undermined their professional reputation.

Mrs Parry’s representations

Mrs Parry partially agreed with the outline of the events provided by the staff member but indicated that she felt that the staff member had acted aggressively towards her and left her feeling bullied on the relevant day.

Nominated Committee Member (NCM) findings

The matter was considered by the North West Conduct Advisory Committee under the Judicial Conduct (Magistrates) Rules 2023. The NCM acknowledged that there were tensions between Mrs Parry and the staff member. However, the NCM found that Mrs Parry did not behave with courtesy and respect towards the staff member, and in repeatedly not listening to the matters raised by the staff member, Mrs Parry was rude, dismissive and unprofessional. The NCM found that Mrs Parry’s conduct on the day fell below the expected standard required, which amounted to misconduct.

In recommending formal advice, the NCM was of the view that Mrs Parry did not behave with any malice, however, she was reckless in not assessing the impact of her actions. The NCM also took into consideration the emotional harm to the staff member and the delay caused to court proceedings.

Decision

Mr Justice Keehan and the Lord Chancellor agreed with the recommendation of the NCM and issued Mrs Parry with formal advice.

Notes for Editors

Media queries in relation to the JCIO should be made in the first instance to the Judicial Press Office - telephone 020 7073 4852 or via email - press.enquiries@judiciary.gsi.gov.uk

Sanctions for misconduct by judicial office-holders are set out in the Constitutional Reform Act 2005. They are, in order of severity: formal advice, formal warning, reprimand and removal from office.

For more information about the Office, including details on how to make a complaint against a judicial office holder, you can visit the JCIO website at: Judicial Conduct Investigations website