Advantages & Disadvantages of The Judiciary

Question 1

DisAdv; Domination

Answer 1

• It’s always been dominated by elderly, white, upper-class males.
• Few women in the upper ranks and in the upper minorities.

Question 2

Women in The Judiciary

Answer 2

• There has been an increase in women judges.
• In 1990s, none in CofA and 3 in HC.
• 2016; 8 women in CofA and 23 in HC.
• Also been an increase in recorders and circuit judges; 5% - 25% CircJudge and 17% were recorders.
• Biggest increase was from 2% to 30% of district judges.
• Partly due to the open and competitive method of selection, also increasing numbers of barristers and solicitors.

Question 3

Ethnic Minorities

Answer 3

• Increases in minority background judges.
• In 1990s there were no BMEs in the judiciary
• 3 BME HC Judges and17 Circuit judges as of 2016.
• 7% of recorders and 8& of judges.

Question 4

Educational and Social Background

Answer 4

• Most have come from upper levels of society, with many attending Oxbridge and public schools.
• 85 Judges appointed from 1997 - 1998, 73% been to public school and 79% went Oxbridge.
• Judges in higher profession have been to Oxbridge compared to the lower professions like district judges and recorders.

Question 5

Career Judiciary?

Answer 5

• Should students be trained as judges first rather than a a lawyer.