Traditionally, female members of the Tribunal panel have been called Madam and male members of the panel Sir.
As of 1st December 2022, the Senior President of Tribunals and the Lord Chief Justice have announced that Employment Tribunal Judges (and those of the Employment Appeal Tribunals) should no longer be addressed as Sir/Madam but be called “Judge” when addressed. Lay members of the panel will still be addressed as Sir/Madam.
The move is said to be a move to modern and simple terminology whilst retaining respect for the important judicial role and to assist litigants in person in particular navigate the Tribunal litigation. What to call the Judge is often a question litigant in person have particularly with female judges who are often referred to as Ma’am as well as Madam or Judge.
Written by
Astons Solicitors
20th December 2022