Cambridge Studies in Constitutional Law: Series Number 8: Judges on Trial: The Independence and Accountability of the English Judiciary

The second edition of Judges on Trial articulates the rules, assumptions and practices which shape the culture of independence of the English judiciary today. Enhanced by interviews with English judges, legal scholars and professionals, it also outlines the factors that shape the modern meaning of judicial independence. The book discusses the contemporary issues of judicial governance, judicial appointments, the standards of conduct on and off the bench, the discipline and liability of judges and the relationship between judges and the media. It is accessible to an international audience of lawyers, political scientists and judges beyond the national realm.

1. Introduction; 2. Constitutional steps towards judicial independence; 3. The structure and governance of the English judiciary; 4. Judicial appointments; 5. Standards of conduct on the bench; 6. Standards of conduct in extra-judicial activities; 7. Immunity, discipline and removal of judges; 8. Freedom of expression and public confidence in the judiciary; 9. Conclusion.