King approves new commissioners for CCRC

The Ministry of Justice has announced that His Majesty the King, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, has approved the appointment of six new Commissioners to the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC). These appointments, effective from 7 April 2026 to 6 April 2029, bring to the forefront a team of diverse professionals with extensive backgrounds in law and human rights.

The CCRC, established under the Criminal Appeal Act of 1995 and operational since 1997, plays a crucial role in examining cases in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland where alleged miscarriages of justice occur. The Commission investigates applications concerning new evidence or arguments that may establish a real possibility for an appeal court to quash a conviction or reduce a sentence.

The recruitment of CCRC Commissioners is governed by the Commissioner for Public Appointments, ensuring compliance with the Cabinet Office Governance Code on Public Appointments. Appointments are confirmed by His Majesty the King based on recommendations from the Prime Minister, who consults the Lord Chancellor for guidance.

Among the appointed individuals, Joelle Black stands out as a practising barrister in Northern Ireland, excelling in independent decision-making within the realms of domestic and international criminal justice. Maxine Cole, with over 20 years of experience as a Solicitor-Advocate, brings a wealth of expertise in criminal law, having served as a Senior Crown Prosecutor and Police Lawyer.

Jared Ficklin, hailing from Manchester, focuses on immigration and asylum law, and has previously lectured at the University of Liverpool Law Clinic. Andrew Hoyle, a dual-qualified doctor and barrister, specialises in medical law and clinical negligence, holding a prominent role at the General Medical Council.

The newly appointed James Lucas, a registered medical practitioner, has significant experience as an expert witness in the criminal justice system. Lastly, Martha Spurrier, a renowned barrister and human rights policy expert, has led Liberty, the UK’s premier human rights advocacy organisation, from 2016 to 2024 and continues to actively contribute to academia and human rights discussions.

With this new assembly of Commissioners, the Criminal Cases Review Commission is poised to effectively address and investigate potential miscarriages of justice within the legal system