Mr Justice Ryder appointed to key modernisation role after Family Justice Review

Mr Justice Ryder has been appointed with immediate effect to the new post of Judge in Charge of Modernisation of Family Justice.

The appointment – made by the President of the Family Division, Sir Nicholas Wall, with the concurrence of the Lord Chief Justice – comes after the publication today of the Family Justice Review panel’s final report.

The report's key recommendation in the public law field was that all child protection cases should be completed – save for exceptional circumstances – within six months.

Sir Nicholas welcomed the report, saying the panel had taken great care to examine all aspects of cases involving children.

“I recognise the need for all agencies to work together to reduce delay and improve their practices to secure the best possible experience and outcomes for the families and children who become involved with the Family Justice System,” he added.

Sir Nicholas said Mr Justice Ryder’s appointment as Judge in Charge of Modernisation of Family Justice was "in recognition of the importance of judicial leadership in relation to making the court process more efficient while ensuring all parties' rights are properly protected".

See also: Family Justice Review urges ministers to legislate for six-month time limit for public law care cases