Darren Weir, Reader in Law at Kent Law School, has been sworn in as a Deputy District Judge (Magistrates’ Courts). Alongside his role at the University of Kent as Director of Lawyering Skills and the Solicitors’ Practice courses, he will sit on an ad hoc basis as need arises in the Magistrates’ Courts.
Darren took the judicial oath at a ceremony at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday 26 October. His Honour Judge Julian Smith presided, accompanied by HHJ Stevenson and HHJ Lazarus. Members of the Bar were present as Darren took his oath in Court 7.
HHJ Smith said it was a pleasure and an honour to receive Darren’s oaths of office before he took up the role. He told Darren:
‘We are fortunate you have taken on this office. You are an exceptionally highly regarded and respected member of the legal community in Kent whose knowledge and tireless enthusiasm has made a difference to so many.’
Turning to Darren’s new role, HHJ Smith said:
‘I hope this new office offers you as much as your other roles. It is somewhat different from your current commitments. You will exercise judgment and be expected by society as a whole to bring your experience, understanding and ability to bear on those matters that come before you. You are not told what to do as a judge, you are trusted to exercise your judgement. You have proved by your appointment that you are worthy of that trust. Which means you are equipped to make the difficult, consequential decisions that will be your responsibility but which belong to the community you serve. You will see and respond to the worst of humanity and do so with judgement and fairness and on occasion you will also see the very best of people — responses or actions that will reaffirm your faith in all of us — a faith you will need to retain and nurture if you are to continue to do justice in your new role.’
Professor Lisa Dickson, Head of Kent Law School, said ‘I am delighted to congratulate Darren on his appointment. This is a significant achievement and an important responsibility, and I wish him every success in his new role. At Kent Law School, we place great value on the connections between legal education, professional practice and public service, and it is always a pleasure to see colleagues making such valuable contributions to law and the legal profession.’
Everyone at Kent Law School wishes Darren well as he embarks on his new judicial role. Kent law students will continue to benefit from his expertise as they develop their legal knowledge and skills.