2024-11-21

Brigadier Tony Faith CBE: A Pillar of Integrity and Reform

Brigadier Tony Faith CBE has been a beacon of integrity and reform within the legal community. His contributions, particularly in overseeing the Council of the Inns of Court (COIC) Disciplinary Tribunals and Hearings Review Group, have been instrumental in restoring confidence in the legal system.

Early Life and Military Career

Tony Faith’s journey began with a distinguished military career. Rising to the rank of Brigadier, he was known for his strategic acumen and leadership skills. His service was marked by numerous commendations, culminating in being awarded the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).

Transition to Legal Oversight

After retiring from the military, Brigadier Faith transitioned to a role within the legal sector, bringing his disciplined approach to the administration of justice. Tony was selected in 2008 as the Under-Treasurer (Chief Executive) of the Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn. As the Under-Treasurer of Gray’s Inn, he played a pivotal role in the COIC Disciplinary Tribunals and Hearings Review Group.

Legal Reforms and Challenges

In 2012, the COIC published a Final Report detailing significant reforms needed within the Disciplinary Tribunals Service. Brigadier Faith was at the forefront of implementing these changes, addressing jurisdiction errors, and unlawful practices that had plagued the system. His leadership ensured that the administration adhered to appropriate legal and procedural standards.

Broader issues at the time

The Browne Report revealed irregularities such as inadequate documentation and oversight in appointing tribunal members. Additionally, the Bar Standards Board (BSB) introduced stricter rules, such as barring barristers on the prosecution panel from serving on tribunals, and established a mandatory “quarantine” period for former BSB or Bar Council members before they could join disciplinary panels. This was aimed at ensuring transparency and avoiding any perception of bias.

The creation of the Bar Tribunals and Adjudication Service (BTAS) was a significant outcome of these reforms. By 2013, BTAS had established new tribunal panels consisting of barristers, lay members, and clerks, improving the independence and functionality of disciplinary hearings. These changes marked an essential step toward restoring public trust in the system

Cite:

1) https://www.legalfutures.co.uk/latest-news/bsb-disciplinary-tribunal-reforms-2012
2) https://www.barcouncil.org.uk/about-us/governance/bar-tribunals-adjudication-service.html
3) https://www.legalfutures.co.uk/latest-news/coic-disciplinary-panels-review-2012
4) https://www.innertemplelibrary.com/2012/07/bsb-welcomes-publication-of-coic-tribunal-review-report-bar-standards-board/
5) https://www.tbtas.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Information-and-Guidance-Pack.pdf

One of the critical issues highlighted was the presence of uncertified judges and jurisdiction errors leading to wrongful outcomes. Brigadier Faith’s efforts were aimed at rectifying these injustices, ensuring that the legal process was fair and transparent.

Personal Impact and Ongoing Concerns

Despite the implementation of eighty-five recommendations, some individuals, like the author of this account, continue to face unresolved issues. The case of Emily, the author’s daughter, remains a poignant example of the challenges that persist. The wrongful outcome in her case, amidst at least 80 similar instances, underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and reform.

The Council of the Inns of Court (COIC) Disciplinary Tribunals and Hearings Review Group Final Report, chaired by Desmond Browne QC, was published in 2012. This report uncovered significant systemic failures in the administration of disciplinary tribunals for barristers. The review highlighted various shortcomings in how disciplinary processes were managed and suggested reforms to improve fairness, transparency, and efficiency.

Brigadier Anthony Faith, serving as the Under Treasurer of Gray’s Inn at the time, played a crucial role in overseeing the implementation of the report’s recommendations. His involvement helped to address the issues raised, ensuring better governance and reforms in the disciplinary system for barristers.

For further details, you can access the full Final Report here:
1) COIC Disciplinary Tribunals and Hearings Review Group Final Report (2012)
2) Bar Tribunal Services.

Additionally, there is a detailed article summarizing the review’s findings and implications:
Review Slams Systemic Failures in the Bar’s Disciplinary System​

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Brigadier Tony Faith’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment to justice and reform. His work has laid the foundation for a more robust and fair legal system. However, the journey towards complete restoration of confidence in the system continues, as individuals like the author await resolution and justice.

He retired from Gray’s in 2016 and was made an Honorary Bencher. He is now the Chairman of a Commonwealth Charity based in London – the Victoria League for Commonwealth Friendship and a Trustee of a Royal British Legion Care Home in Ripon.

Cite:

• The Final Report from the Council of the Inns of Court (COIC) Disciplinary Tribunals and Hearings Review Group, published in 2012 (https://www.tbtas.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Final-Report-From-The-Council-Of-The-Inns-Of-Court-COIC-Disciplinary-Tribunals-And-Hearings-Review-Group.pdf) Under-Treasurer of Gray’s Inn, Brigadier Tony Faith CBE
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