Lord Justice Stephen Richards has been appointed as Deputy Head of Civil Justice, in succession to Lord Justice Moore-Bick.
His appointment, which will take effect on 1 January 2013, was made by the Lord Chief Justice after consultation with the Lord Chancellor. The appointment, which is a statutory one (under Section 62 of the Courts Act 2003), is for a three year term.
The Deputy Head of Civil Justice plays a leading role on the Civil Procedure Rule Committee, and works with a network of Designated Civil Judges to oversee the delivery of civil justice in England and Wales.
Commenting on the appointment, Lord Dyson, the Master of the Rolls, said:
“I am delighted with this appointment, and look forward to working closely with Stephen Richards on the many challenges and changes facing the civil justice system.
“I would also like to pay tribute to Martin Moore-Bick for the magnificent job he has done in this role for the past six years, with enormous command of the subjects and tremendous commitment to improving the system.”
Notes for Editors
Lord Justice (Sir Stephen) Richards 61, has been a Lord Justice of Appeal since 2005, and was appointed as a High Court Judge in 1997 and was a Presiding Judge for the Wales and Chester Circuit from 2000 - 2003. He was called to the Bar (Gray's Inn) in 1975 and made a Bencher in 1992.
