Lord Woolman to be President of Scottish Tribunals

Court of Session judge Lord Woolman is to become President of the Scottish Tribunals, succeeding Lady Smith who is stepping down after six years in the role.

Lady Smith was assigned as the first President of the Scottish Tribunals in 2014 by the then Lord President, Lord Gill. Since then she has overseen the transfer of a wide range of tribunal jurisdictions into the Scottish Tribunals under a new chambers structure, as well as the establishment of the judicially led First-tier and Upper Tribunals. She has also been engaged in the work of devolving the judicial leadership and administration of the UK tribunals in Scotland, in accordance with the provisions in the Smith Commission agreement.

She will continue in her role as chair of the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry.

Lord Woolman takes over as President from today, 24 August. He has served as a judge of the Court of Session and High Court in Scotland since 2008.

He commented: "As the first President of the Scottish Tribunals, Lady Smith has held the post with great distinction. I am delighted to succeed her in the post at a time when the tribunals are in good heart. Their work has never been more important and it is my privilege to take that forward. Our tribunals are a vital part of the administration of justice in Scotland, providing an essential service to a wide range of people."

Lady Smith said: "Over the last six years, a sea change has occurred in the administration of justice in Scotland’s tribunals. Substantial progress has been made towards achieving a tribunals system that is fit for the 21st century and independent of government. None of this could have been achieved without the remarkable support and willingness of the tribunals’ judiciary, particularly the chamber presidents, and the staff of the Scottish Courts & Tribunals Service. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to work with them all.

"Whilst the complex project for the devolution of other tribunals to Scottish leadership is taking longer than was originally expected – and the impact of COVID-19 seems likely to cause further delay – much good work has been completed. I am very glad to have had the opportunity to contribute to this important work.

"However, I believe that, six years on, the time has come for me to pass on the responsibilities of the President’s role."