25 Canada Square Chambers is a modern and forward-thinking set of Chambers. Since being founded, Chambers has drawn upon the diverse backgrounds of its members - some of whom have cross-qualified and come to the Bar from their previous careers as Solicitors and Chartered Legal Executives.
In this vein, Chambers supports and welcomes the recent announcement that via a Statutory Instrument which amends s.50 of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007, the ability to apply for more Judicial posts will be opened-up to Chartered Legal Executive Lawyers. Those with seven years experience will be eligible to be appointed to the post of Recorder and Judge (or Deputy Judge) of the Upper Tribunal for the first time.
CILEx Lawyers have been eligible to become Judges since 2007. Previously, CILEx Lawyers were (and under the reforms, will remain) able to take-up positions as a District Judge, Deputy District Judge, First-Tier Tribunal Judge, Employment Judge, Road User Charging Adjudicator, Parking Adjudicator, Senior Coroner, Area Coroner and Assistant Coroner. After 2 years of experience sitting as a District Judge, they may apply to become a Circuit Judge.
The news has received a positive reception from various bodies within the industry, including the Bar Council. CILEx has welcomed the move and has pointed out that its membership is one of the most diverse in the legal profession. At approximately the midway point of the execution of the Judicial Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2020/25, this announcement is further progress towards achieving a Judiciary which reflects the diverse society which it serves.