First ever full-time CILEX judge appointee

The first ever legal executive to be appointed to a fulltime judicial appointment has been named as personal injury lawyer Elizabeth Johnson. 

Already a part-time first-tier tribunal judge, Johnson (pictured) – currently an associate at Ashfords – takes up her post as a full-time paid district tribunal judge on 14 June.

In 2019, two years after participating in the CILEX judicial development programme, she was the first female legal executive to be appointed to the judiciary. 

She said the last two years sitting as a part-time judge have been “hugely rewarding” and she had no doubts that she wanted to apply for a full-time judicial position. 

“Over the last two years I have been contacted by several CILEX members seeking advice and guidance about becoming a judge and I’m glad I have been able to inspire others to apply for judicial office”, commented Johnson. “Whilst the application process is tough, I have demonstrated that, with the right skills and expertise, it is achievable and well within reach for many CILEX lawyers.”

CILEX chair Chris Bones said legal executives are increasingly making it to the top of the legal profession, but added: “There is still considerable under-representation of women and ethnic minorities in our judiciary. This urgently needs to change to ensure the judiciary better reflects the society it serves. 

“With a diverse membership, CILEX has an important part to play, and Elizabeth’s appointment sends a message to our members, that the judiciary is a potential career path for them.”