Old Bailey reaches gender parity milestone for judges for first time

It follows the recent appointment of judges Rebecca Trowler QC, Simon Mayo QC and Alexia Durran

The image of Oxbridge-educated male judges dominating the courts has been toppled after the Old Bailey achieved gender parity for the first time.

An equal number of male and female full-time judges now sit at the historic criminal court in central London, including three mothers with school-age children.

Lead Old Bailey Judge Mark Lucraft QC said it was a “significant step in the right direction” but added more could be done on ethnic diversity.

The most recent appointees – judges Rebecca Trowler QC, Simon Mayo QC and Alexia Durran – bring a wide range of professional experience.

In 2012, Judge Wendy Joseph QC was the only full-time female judge sitting at the Old Bailey.

She had followed in the footsteps of Judge Nina Lowry – the first full-time female Old Bailey judge – and Judge Ann Goddard.

There are now seven female and seven male full-time judges, plus Judge John Hillen, who transferred following the closure of Blackfriars Crown Court.

Published: 20/08/2021 by Radio NewsHub