Posts Tagged ‘equal treatment bench book’
Tribunals Journal – latest edition
The latest edition of the Tribunals Journal has just been published. It contains a varied collection of articles – all concise, informative and easy to read!
Among the highlights are thoughts from the new President of Tribunals, Sir Keith Lindholm on his ambitions for the development of the tribunals service, and reflections from Prof Mike Adler on the Leggatt Review of Tribunals and its impact on the shaping of the current system. Two articles consider different aspects on the training of the judiciary – a reflexion by Christa Christensen on her years as Director of Training, and an important article by Barry Clarke on innovations in induction training.
Alison Rowley writes an important piece on the challenge of dealing with judicial burnout – recently highlighted in the Judicial Attitudes Survey, noted in this blog. The new Equal Treatment Benchbook – also noted in this blog – is introduced in an accessible language summary prepared by Alex Durance. See also the piece by Rebecca Howard on advice in the book on the treatment of vulnerable men.
Paul Monserrat writes on the work of the Diversity and Inclusion Team in the Judicial Office. And there is a tribute to Judge Esme Martins – one of the first black women to hold judicial office.
The full edition is available at https://sway.office.com/GDVBBdcCIDfXZZPp?ref=Link&loc=play
I declare an interest, as a member of the Editorial Committee.
Equal Treatment Bench Book – 2021 revision
The Equal Treatment Bench Book (ETBB) is the subject of frequent amendment. A Comprehensive revision was released in February, 2021..
The aim of the ETBB to increase judicial awareness and understanding of the different circumstances of people appearing in courts and tribunals. It is designed to enable effective communication and suggests steps which should increase participation by all parties.
This new revision of the ETBB cites recent evidence regarding the experiences of different communities living in Britain today. It contains practical guidance aimed at helping make the court experience more accessible for parties and witnesses who might be uncertain, fearful or feel unable to participate.
There are practical tips on communicating with those speaking English as a second language or through interpreters, communicating with people with mental disabilities, a guide to different naming systems, and latest views on acceptable terminology.
There is new and expanded content on:
- The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on different groups and how to conduct remote hearings (on audio or video platforms) fairly
- Welsh/English bilingualism and the right to speak Welsh in courts and tribunals in Wales
- Reducing jargon and legalese
- Assisting a litigant who has difficulty reading or writing
- Extended guidance in relation to litigants-in-person (ie people representing themselves)
- New entries in the disability glossary
- Confidence in the courts of minority ethnic communities
- Sensitivity if a witness is experiencing menopausal symptoms
Although intended primarily for use by judges in courts and tribunals, its contents deserve to be widely known appearing in a court or tribunal or with an interest in how the legal system works. It is of particular relevance to those who may be seeking a judicial appointment.
The full text of the 2021 revision is at https://www.judiciary.uk/announcements/equal-treatment-bench-book-new-edition/
Martin Partington: Introduction to the English Legal System 15th ed 2021
Oxford University Press Learning Link Resources
Martin Partington: Spotlight on the Justice System 