Clifford Piarroux: Lay Member of the First-tier Tribunal, Property Chamber (Residential Property)
“One of the most compelling reasons to consider this role is the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. I believe my experience and involvement in the Tribunal positively impacts on others and has been personally fulfilling.”
Background
I have found becoming a Lay Member of the Property Tribunal is not only a rewarding experience but also a unique and valuable opportunity to contribute and serve our community. Lay Members play an essential role in contributing to and ensuring that property disputes are heard fairly and impartially. This opportunity invites individuals from diverse backgrounds to bring their unique perspectives and understanding to enrich the decision-making process.
Many of the people who attend the Tribunal are ‘litigants in person’, meaning they represent themselves. Property disputes can be stressful and complex. The Lay Member can help demystify the legal process, ensuring the process is much clearer and more understandable.
The background of people in this role is varied, reflecting that of the community we all serve. My own background is rooted in social housing. I was born and raised in a multicultural, working-class, urban environment, with the additional life experience of having been homeless myself. I have lived in private and social rented accommodation, and now own my own home. Additionally, I have spent much of my working life serving people in a social care environment. This diverse and rich experience has greatly assisted me in this role.
I have also been fortunate to serve in other judicial roles over the years, such as a Magistrate and on another Tribunal; this has led to a deep appreciation of this particular role, which I have undertaken for some twenty-four years.
The role
As a Lay Member, I usually sit with a Legal Member (The Tribunal Judge) and with a Professional Member (a valuer and/or surveyor). This makes up the tribunal panel. In this role, I’m involved in resolving and deciding on issues relating to one of the most important aspects of people’s lives: their home and/or property.
The work itself involves resolving disputes on a wide range of issues, such as disputes between leaseholders and managing agents/landlords relating to service charges (the reasonableness of work undertaken, quality, standard and or cost of services and compliance with the required processes involved), and applications for Rights to Manage.
I’ve also dealt with issues relating to landlords and tenants regarding the licensing of houses of multiple occupation, as well as determining increases in ‘market’ and ‘fair’ rent appeals. The Lay Member role helps promote justice and fairness and I have found that it contributes significantly to this end, enhancing and enabling participants to understand, where need be, and therefore be involved in the process. This is invaluable. The role has its complexities, and the impact at times is subtle; the decisions made can be challenging, with a significant impact on those involved.
The members of the Tribunal are overwhelmingly friendly, welcoming and supportive of the Lay Member’s contribution. While the role requires strong communication skills, critical thinking, teamwork, negotiation, and an understanding of legal frameworks, it is flexible and does not necessitate a legal background. Comprehensive training and support ensure that all Lay Members feel equipped to fulfil their responsibilities effectively, enabling individuals from all walks of life to contribute, which fosters inclusivity and a sense of shared purpose.
Engaging in this role has enhanced my confidence and skills, benefiting me both personally and professionally. Furthermore, Lay Members gain insight into the workings of the judicial system, deepening their understanding of property law and the challenges faced by both tenants and landlords.
If you are passionate about justice and wish to make a meaningful contribution to your community, consider becoming a Lay Member of the Property Tribunal. This role offers a unique opportunity to serve, develop valuable skills, and foster positive change, helping to create a fairer society for everyone.
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