Dyson LJ named as final Supreme Court justice

Dyson LJ, who was called to the bar at Keating Chambers in 1969, took silk in 1982 and joined 39 Essex Street as head of chambers in 1986, was today unveiled as the Supreme Court’s 12th justice, after the appointment was approved by the Queen.

Dyson LJ emerged as an early contender  for the final seat on the Supreme Court bench, but it was understood that he had been rejected by the selection panel. Other names that had been in the frame were Lord Justice Rix, Lord Justice Lloyd and Jonathan Sumption QC (14 December 20009).

Supreme Court president Lord Phillips of Worth Matravers said he admired Dyson LJ’s abilities as a judge, having worked with him at the Appeal Court.

“I welcome the announcement of  Sir John Dyson’s appointment as a justice of the Supreme Court - the second justice to be appointed direct to the court since our opening last October,” he said.

“I much enjoyed working with Sir John in the Court of Appeal and have great admiration for his abilities.  I and all the justices look forward to working with him here.”

Dyson LJ said he was “honoured and delighted” by his appointment, adding: “I’m excited by the challenge of joining such a distinguished court and the prospect of deciding the most important legal issues of the day.”