Judges give verdict on pay

Judges have complained of deteriorating buildings, poor IT support, and low morale among court staff, according to the latest Judicial Attitude Survey.

More than half have concerns for their personal safety while in court, and more than one third are concerned for their safety outside of court, while 15% have concerns related to social media.

Some 78% have had a loss of net earnings in the past two years, and 62% have been personally affected by the change in pensions. Both of these issues have had a detrimental effect on morale.

The results did not bode well for the future—more than a third want to retire early during the next five years, and a further 23% are undecided. The judges identified two main factors as likely to sway them to leave the judiciary early, further limits on pay awards and reductions in pension benefits. However, 57% said an increase in workload might prompt them to leave, and more than half cited further demands for out of hours work, stressful conditions at work and reduction in administrative support as possible spurs for an early retirement.

Conversely, higher remuneration, a settled position on pensions and better administrative support would keep them in post, according to 80%, 57% and 56% of the judges, respectively. Judicial salaries range from £107,100 to £249,583.

The Lord Chief Justice, Lord Thomas said: “The quality of the judiciary underpins the rule of law and the continued success of our legal services market nationally and internationally. We are therefore extremely grateful to those who took part in the survey, which assists the SSRB in making evidence-based recommendations to government on judicial pay.”