The Attorney General has raised concerns over the negative impact of political assaults on judges and lawyers, warning that such attacks could drive legal professionals away and limit access to justice for working-class individuals. Richard Hermer criticized the hostile environment surrounding the justice system, stating that it has caused many dedicated professionals to reconsider their careers.
The Attorney General’s remarks come in the wake of a controversial speech by Robert Jenrick at the Tory conference, where he symbolically rejected the involvement of political activists in judicial roles. Lord Hermer emphasized that the persistent threats and attacks faced by judges and lawyers, particularly from the right-wing, could lead to a shortage of legal professionals, resulting in trial delays or collapses.
He highlighted the detrimental effects of naming and targeting individuals in the legal sector, noting that the current atmosphere is prompting talented lawyers and judges to question their futures. Lord Hermer stressed that these unwarranted political attacks not only jeopardize ongoing legal proceedings but also hinder access to justice for the working class and contribute to delays in addressing issues like the asylum backlog.
Recent criticism directed at immigration barristers by the Shadow Justice Secretary prompted London’s Garden Court chambers to defend their legal team’s reputation as one of the nation’s finest. Meanwhile, Robert Jenrick has spearheaded a campaign to expose what he deems as activist judges and has singled out specific judges for criticism, raising concerns within the legal community.
Several legal bodies, representing a significant number of lawyers, have expressed deep concerns about the escalating hostility towards legal professionals. Lord Hermer echoed these sentiments, stating that the attacks on the judiciary have escalated to the point of violence, death threats, and even threats targeting family members.
In response to the situation, a Labour source emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing court system challenges, such as prolonged delays in delivering justice, a rise in attrition rates in rape cases, and a substantial backlog in asylum cases. The source emphasized the party’s dedication to resolving these issues as part of a broader plan for national renewal, contrasting it with what they perceive as divisive tactics employed by others.