Changes to the operation of the Judicial Panel

Published 2020/03/31

Until further notice the Judicial Panel Chair, His Honour Brian Barker C.B.E. QC will hear cases alone.

Primarily this will be through the fast-track process where cases can be resolved administratively without the need for a hearing.

Hearings for some ongoing cases may have to be postponed until the current situation changes and full hearings in person are possible.

However there are certain evidentially straightforward cases, particularly some which may risk causing distress or uncertainty for participants and as such the participants wish them to be heard, which can be heard remotely.

During the ongoing situation with corona virus it is these cases which will be prioritised.

Unfortunately, due to administrative and logistical reasons remote hearings will not be open to the media.

Pre-hearing notices, results and written reasons will continue to be published in the usual way.

Any fines which are dispensed can be deferred for at least six months, unless those involved wish to pay.

All fines will be reviewed again after six months if appropriate, and payment plans can be created to minimize the financial impact.

Suspensions will be served immediately unless directed otherwise by the Chair.

Notes to Editors:

1. More information about the Judicial Panel can be found here.

Please note, the BHA Judicial Panel is an independent body which encompasses the Disciplinary Panel, Appeal Board and Licensing Committee.

It receives administrative support from the BHA via the Judicial Panel Secretary.