The Bar can be an intimidating place and as in every walk of life it has its bullies, but they are outnumbered by the good people, as this thread from Twitter shows.
It all began with a tweet from Michael Auty QC of 1 High Pavement Chambers, lamenting judges who bully junior barristers.
I know my view that the Bar and Bench should be a pure meritocracy is unpopular with some; and I question it myself when today begins with a complaint of yet another Judge bullying a young female barrister. It’s repugnant & demeans the office you hold! No one respects a bully!
— Michael Auty QC (@MichaelAutyQC) December 11, 2017
His tweet prompted others to come forward with stories of kind and respectful judges they had known, with Lord Leveson praised for the thoughtfulness he showed towards a nervous pupil barrister.
https://twitter.com/CrimeGirI/status/940263515876724736
https://twitter.com/CrimeGirI/status/940265527812984838
Other judges were praised for their kindness when barristers appearing in front of them were going through a family tragedy.
Trial last Jan at Notts in front of HHJ Coe- weekend mid trial family member had heart attack & I spent weekend at hospital. On Monday HHJ & my oppo (park ct, Manchester) were what got me through it w/out jury, police, or wits having any idea #class
— Teresa (@tmaryh) December 11, 2017
And finally…
Jury selection, CCJ, yesterday.
Man: I can’t serve; I’m away for weekend.
Judge: We don’t sit at weekends.
Man: I’m away till Monday. I’m 54, a bachelor & it’s my 1st time in love.
Judge: Then you GO and you GO with my blessing.It was truly an epic moment ❤️
— Sarah-Jane Murphy (@sjanemurf) December 13, 2017
There are good people in the world.
