JCIO 89/24

A spokesperson for the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office said:

Mr Justice Keehan, on behalf of the Lady Chief Justice and with the Lord Chancellor’s agreement, has issued Ms Justine Dyson with a reprimand for persistent failure to complete the minimum annual sittings required of a magistrate.

Facts

On appointment, magistrates sign an undertaking which includes a commitment to sit for at least 13 days (or 26 half days) a year. They are also expected to keep in regular contact with their bench chair and be able to demonstrate commitment and reliability to the magistracy.

Ms Dyson was referred to the North-West Conduct Advisory Committee after she failed to meet her sitting requirements in any year since 2021.

Ms Dyson’s representations

Ms Dyson cited factors that affected her ability to sit, such as previously being a key-worker, caring responsibilities, illness and bereavement. She expressed commitment to the magistracy and made efforts to increase her sittings.

Findings

Following an investigation carried out under the Judicial Conduct (Magistrates) Rules 2023, a nominated committee member found that although Ms Dyson’s mitigation only provided a partial excuse, she was on course to meet sitting requirements for the current year and therefore it was not appropriate to remove her from the magistracy. The nominated committee member recommended a reprimand.

Following an investigation carried out under the Judicial Conduct (Magistrates) Rules 2023, a nominated committee member found that although Ms Dyson’s mitigation only provided a partial excuse, she was on course to meet sitting requirements for the current year and therefore it was not appropriate to remove her from the magistracy. The nominated committee member recommended a reprimand.

Decision

Mr Justice Keehan and the Lord Chancellor agreed with the findings and recommendation and issued Ms Dyson with a reprimand.

Notes for Editors

Media queries in relation to the JCIO should be made in the first instance to the Judicial Press Office - telephone 020 7073 4852 or via email - press.enquiries@judiciary.gsi.gov.uk

Sanctions for misconduct by judicial office-holders are set out in the Constitutional Reform Act 2005. They are, in order of severity: formal advice, formal warning, reprimand and removal from office.

For more information about the Office, including details on how to make a complaint against a judicial office holder, you can visit the JCIO website at: Judicial Conduct Investigations website