Hear from the Judges – Tribunal Judge Samina Majid

Can you introduce yourself?

I am tribunal judge Samina Majid. I am appointed to the First-tier Tribunal in the North West and hear cases in the Social Entitlement Chamber. I still practise as a solicitor in both civil and criminal cases although not as frequently as previously.

I voluntarily mentor minorities through the judicial appointments process, encouraging them to apply and supporting them through the rigorous selection process. I have attended speaking events at law firms and other arenas to encourage applications and to promote diversity within the judiciary. I am positively engaged with the Law Society and Judicial Appointments Commission to encourage under-represented people to apply.

What first sparked your interest in the law?

I fell into law having completed science A-levels and being unsure what sort of career to pursue. During a careers convention at sixth form, I recall a solicitor attended to give a talk about his role in Law. It sounded appealing and following some research into the degree I thought I would give it a try!

What did you do before you became a judge?

After training and qualifying, I worked as a solicitor for nearly 20 years. I was fortunate to work at two leading city centre firms as a Criminal Defence Solicitor, where I gained a wealth of experience in dealing with a variety of criminal cases of differing severity. I managed a private practice as a Partner for several years thereafter and volunteered as a Criminal and Family Magistrate too.

What does the rule of law mean to you and why is it important?

The rule of law requires its supremacy, equality, accountability, and fairness to be effective. If we are to live in a civilised society, we must all adhere to and respect the rule of law. Without it there would be anarchy. Many religions, including my own, Islam, command it a duty to be faithful and obedient to the authority they live under. To disobey the law of the land, would be akin to disobeying their religion