Judges in the Court of Appeal Case of Hopcraft v Close Brothers
The recent landmark ruling in the Hopcraft v Close Brothers case in the Court of Appeal confirms that the motor finance industry has been unlawfully hiding key commission information from its customers. The Judges unanimous decision paves the way for billions in compensation to be refunded, which may result in the motor finance scandal eclipsing the PPI scandal. The Judges in the case each have long and formidable careers.
Lady Justice Andrews
Lady Justice Andrews, appointed to the Court of Appeal in 2020, brings extensive experience in commercial and public law. A former barrister specializing in commercial disputes, Andrews practiced in the areas of shipping, finance, and international trade. Her judicial career began with her High Court appointment in 2013, where she presided over cases involving banking, company, and public law. Known for her precision and analytical approach, she has a history of handling complex financial litigation and matters involving regulatory oversight. Lady Justice Andrews is recognized for her clear, pragmatic judgments, often addressing intricate points of commercial and administrative law.
Lord Justice Birss
Lord Justice Colin Birss, a specialist in intellectual property law, was appointed to the Court of Appeal in 2021. He began his career as a barrister in IP law in 1990, gaining recognition for his deep knowledge in patents and copyright law. In 2010, he became a judge in the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court (IPEC), where he handled high-profile cases impacting technology, media, and pharmaceuticals. Elevated to the High Court in 2013, he presided over the Patents Court and served as Supervising Judge of the Business and Property Courts. Known for his involvement in patent law, Birss is a member of international legal committees, such as the EPO Boards of Appeal Committee, and has contributed significantly to legal literature as the General Editor of Terrell on the Law of Patents.
Lord Justice Edis
Lord Justice Andrew Edis, appointed to the Court of Appeal in 2021, is renowned for his expertise in criminal law and significant contributions to legal proceedings in complex criminal cases. Originally appointed as a High Court Judge in 2014, Edis has presided over numerous high-profile trials, including cases related to the Essex lorry deaths, the Shoreham Airshow crash, and the News International phone-hacking scandal. Edis has a reputation for his strong ethical standards and rigorous approach to justice. His background includes prosecuting complex cases and issuing judgments in criminal appeals, emphasizing the balance of fairness and accountability within the legal system.