MAGISTRATES have been barred from dispensing “justice by Zoom” from their sunbeds while on holiday.
JPs have been ticked off for administering the law while relaxing overseas — because they will be in another country’s jurisdiction.
The warning was made after “learned individuals” were issuing warrants and overseeing cases which do not require court time while on vacation.
A source said: “We’ve had JPs in Speedos, bikinis and flip-flops ruling on cases via Zoom.
“It’s not a good look for the judiciary.
“They’ve been trying to have their cake and eat it but they’ve now been ordered to stay in line.
“With magistrates just starting to fly off on faraway jaunts, it’s a very timely reminder.”
His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals issued the guidance in the latest Magistrates’ Legal e-Newsletter.
It states: “Magistrates should not take part in any court work as magistrates from outside the UK or UK dependencies.
“The reason is that when abroad magistrates (and any other judges) are within the jurisdiction of another country.”
His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals told The Sun that “no laws have been broken”.
It added: “Magistrates were reminded they shouldn’t conduct hearings from abroad — as the public would expect”.
GettyMagistrates have been ticked off for administering the law while relaxing overseas[/caption] Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
