The appointment of Nick Hanning marks a groundbreaking achievement for CILEX.
- For the first time, a CILEX lawyer has been appointed as a recorder in the UK.
- Hanning’s new role is on the South Eastern circuit in the Family Division.
- This follows a law change allowing CILEX lawyers to apply for recorder roles.
- Hanning’s appointment signifies a push for greater diversity on the bench.
In a historic first, Nick Hanning has become the first CILEX lawyer to be appointed as a recorder. This appointment is significant as it marks a major milestone in the legal profession, highlighting the evolving opportunities for CILEX-qualified lawyers within the judiciary. Hanning’s new position allows him to preside over cases in the county, family, and Crown courts, specifically within the Family Division on the South Eastern circuit.
This advancement follows a legislative update that enabled suitably qualified CILEX lawyers to apply for roles as recorders and Upper Tribunal judges, which was previously unattainable for them. Before this change, the highest judicial role accessible to CILEX members was that of a district judge. Hanning’s journey to this appointment began with his service as a deputy district judge since 2020, providing him with substantial experience and insight into judicial processes.
Hanning expressed his views on the importance of judicial roles, stating that essential judicial skills such as listening, evaluating evidence, and applying the law are equally developed among CILEX lawyers just as they are among solicitors and barristers. He encouraged CILEX professionals to view judicial positions as a viable path for career advancement, subtly challenging the historical hesitance among CILEX lawyers to pursue such roles.
Professor Chris Bones, the chair of CILEX, extended congratulations to Hanning, recognising this appointment as a ‘major landmark’ achieved on the basis of merit. Bones noted that Hanning is a trailblazer within the profession, possessing the necessary attributes for judicial responsibilities. He also highlighted the government’s intent to increase diversity in professional backgrounds and perspectives on the bench as one of the reasons behind the legislative change.
Nick Hanning’s contributions to CILEX have been substantial, with a decade of service including a tenure as the CILEX council president in 2012/13. His appointment stands as a progressive step forward for CILEX, not only in enhancing diversity but also in advancing equality of opportunity for its members.
Hanning’s appointment as a recorder represents a significant progression for CILEX, exemplifying the growing inclusivity and diversification within the judiciary.
