What does HHJ mean in UNCLASSIFIED

A His Honour Judge (HHJ) is a senior legal figure in the UK judiciary system. They are often called upon to preside over cases in the Crown Court, as well as sitting in Appeal Courts and High Courts. They are usually addressed as ‘His Honour’ or ‘Her Honour’.

When addressing a His Honour Judge, you should always use either ‘His/Her Honour’ or ‘Your Honour’. It is also considered appropriate to bow when entering or leaving the courtroom, especially if you are approaching the bench where the judge sits.

Yes, His Honour Judges are selected and appointed by an independent panel of legal professionals, led by the Lord Chancellor’s department of the Ministry of Justice. This panel will assess each candidate based on their experience and qualifications before deciding whether or not they should be offered the position of HHJ.

While his honour judges have jurisdiction across all areas of criminal and civil law, they primarily preside over cases held in crown courts (including murder trials), appeal courts (hear appeals against convictions) and high courts (which often deal with disputes related to public policy).

If someone feels that they have been wrongly convicted or wish to appeal a decision made at court then they may submit an application for permission to appeal against the decision of the HHJ. If their application is successful then their case will be heard at an Appeal Court where it will be judged by 2 other HHJs who will decide whether or not to overturn the original ruling.

Once appointed, a His Honour Judge may progress onto higher positions such as presiding judge in specialist tribunals like immigration tribunals, family division specialist panels or court martial officers. Promotion opportunities for HHJs may also arise from time-to-time within individual circuit groups as Senior Circuit Judges or Heads of Division where more experienced judges specialise in specific areas of law such as criminal justice or family law.

Those applying for appointment must hold either an appropriate postgraduate degree or practising certificate issued from The Law Society/Bar Council which confirms that they are qualified lawyers eligible for appointment as a barrister/solicitor in England & Wales. Additionally, applicants must show sufficient experience (often 4 years)of relevant work including legal practice and/or advocacy in criminal and civil matters – though some exceptions exist for those with less practical experience but significant academic achievements or judicial office holders prior to April 2000 may also become eligible without having served any period playing solicitor/barrister.

Generally speaking, it can take up to 12 months before candidates receive confirmation about their appointment after submitting applications with supporting documents including personal statements outlining their suitability for the role and testimonials from professional referees confirming their qualifications & expertise within relevant fields such as advocacy, mediation etc..The selection process concludes with more detailed interviews conducted by experienced members of The Judicial Appointments Commission prior to any final decisions being made regarding appointments.