24 October 2008
A series of events takes place today at the Royal Courts of Justice aimed at increasing public confidence in the diversity of the judiciary, legal professions and the justice system.
Equality in Justice Day provides an opportunity for people to talk to lawyers and to learn how the justice system operates. Events include a mock trial and talks by the Lord Chief Justice, Baroness Prashar (Chair of the Judicial Appointments Commission) and Justice Minister Bridget Prentice, among others.
The day forms part of national Inside Justice Week, organised by the Ministry of Justice.
Notes to editors
1. Equality in Justice Day takes place at the Royal Courts of Justice, Strand, London W1 on Friday 24 October.
2. The day will run as follows:
10:00am Opening
Sir Suma Chakrabarti, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice
10:15am Welcome
Justice Minister Bridget Prentice MP
10:30am Equality in Law Session
Karon Monaghan QC, Seemab Shaikh from the Bar Council and Paul Marsh, the President of the Law Society
11:30am Experts Session
Jonathan Timbers from the Equality and Human Rights Commission and Martyn Henderson, Government Equality Office
1:10pm Judicial Session
Lord Judge, Lord Chief Justice and Baroness Prashar, Chairman of the Judicial Appointments Commission
1:40pm Equality in the Ministry of Justice Session
Mary Shaw, Deputy Director of Equality and Diversity
14:30pm Motivation Hour
Ankhara Hunte
Tours of the Royal Courts of Justice will run all day.
A mock trial will be held at 11am and 2pm.
There will be stands in the main hall.
3. The Ministry of Justice Press Office can be contacted on 020 3334 3536
4. Speeches will be available from the Judiciary of England and Wales website.