If we can't help
The Office for Judicial Complaints (OJC) deals with complaints about the personal conduct of judges, and other types of judicial office-holder, both inside and outside of the courtroom. (In this leaflet the term “judge” is used to describe any type of judicial office-holder). This is done on behalf of the Lord Chancellor and Lord Chief Justice, who have joint responsibility for taking decisions on judicial discipline.
The Lord Chancellor and the Lord Chief Justice cannot consider any complaint about a judicial decision or the way in which your case has been handled. Examples of judicial decisions include the length or type of sentence, whether a claim can proceed to trial, whether or not a claimant succeeds in their claim, what costs should be awarded and what evidence should be heard. The usual way to challenge this type of decision is to appeal.
If you are considering appealing a judicial decision, we recommend that you obtain legal advice so that you are fully aware of what is involved, what will be expected of you and the level of cost involved.
The bodies listed below may be able to provide you with advice and tell you more about what is involved in an appeal.
- Citizens Advice Bureau
- The Law Society, who will be able to provide you with a list of local solicitors
- Your local law centre (a list can be obtained from the Law Centres Federation)
If you are still unsure about whether your complaint relates to a judicial decision or personal misconduct, please contact the Office for Judicial Complaints Enquiry Line on 020 3334 2555, and we will be happy to assist you.
Any complaints about how the OJC handles complaints can be considered by the Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman:
Office of the Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman
9.53, 9th Floor, The Tower
102 Petty France
London SW1H 9AJ
Telephone: 020 3334 2900
You can find links to other organisations that may be able to assist you in the 'Useful Links' section of this webiste.