THE centuries-old cry of “All rise”; as judges enter court has been axed — but its replacement is causing confusion.
“All rise if able”; will be used regardless of whether anyone attending has a physical .
Yesterday a judge wondered “Who’s Abel?”; when an usher made the announcement at Maidstone crown , .
The decision has been handed down by the Judicial Executive Board and is designed to create a more welcoming environment.
A senior legal source said: “This is supposed to demonstrate a willingness to make reasonable adjustments for those with physical disabilities.
“But if you are attending court for whatever reason you are naturally already ‘included’.
“This has so far resulted in much eye-rolling in the legal community. Little else.
“It’s not as if anyone who can’t stand has been held in contempt for not ‘rising’ when judges or magistrates enter court in the past. Where will this all end?”;
The Judicial Executive Board confirmed the decision, effective immediately, in an internal message on April 23.
The board, overseen by the , is led by Baroness Carr of Walton-on-the-Hill, its first Lady Chief Justice.
In February she rebuked PM Sir and leader when they disagreed with a ruling in an case.
