A Life in the Law with Sir Brian Leveson

Sir Brian Leveson started his career as a barrister in 1970, after being called to the Bar at Middle Temple. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1986, and became a Recorder and a Deputy High Court Judge in 1988. One of his most notorious cases during his time as a prosecutor was the conviction of Rosemary West in 1995, who together with her husband murdered 10 young women. In 2000, Sir Brian became a Judge in the High Court Queen’s Bench Division and was then appointed as a Lord Justice of Appeal, becoming the Senior Presiding Judge for England and Wales in 2006.

In 2009, Sir Brian was appointed as Chairman of the Sentencing Council, which was set up to promote greater transparency and consistency in sentencing, whilst maintaining the independence of the judiciary. Following this, in October 2013, he was appointed President of the Queen’s Bench Division and in 2015 he conducted an extensive review of efficiency in criminal proceedings, publishing a 140-page report. In 2017 he was appointed as Head of Criminal Justice, a role created by the Constitutional Reform Act 2015.

In 2011, Sir Brian became the Chairman of the 'phone hacking' public inquiry investigating the culture, practice and ethics of the press, with the findings being published in 2012. Following this, in 2019, he was appointed the Investigatory Powers Commissioner, authorising and overseeing the use of investigatory powers, ensuring they are used in accordance with the law and in the public interest. In 2022, he was reappointed to this role for a further 3 year term.

Sir Brian’s legal career is extensive, spanning over 50 years. It has resulted in meaningful and positive change to our justice system including the greater regulation of our press, and oversight of the use of surveillance by our intelligence services and other public authorities. A common theme throughout his illustrious career, is a continued commitment to the protection of the rule of law.

Timings for the evening:

• 17:30 Tea and coffee
• 18:00-19:00 Lecture followed by Q&A
• 19:00 Wine and canapés reception