Rowena Page: Deputy Insolvency and Companies Court Judge

I qualified as a barrister in 2012. During my early years in practice, I had a broad commercial chancery practice, but I later specialised into insolvency and fraud litigation.

In 2023, I was approached by a full-time Insolvency and Companies Court (ICC) Judge, who encouraged me to apply in for an upcoming Deputy ICC Judge vacancy. She helped me understand more about the role, what it entailed, and whether I might be suitable for it. She also provided reassurance as to the support that would be available if I were appointed.

Buoyed by this encouragement, I applied for the role. The selection process had two stages: a paper application followed by an interview. The process was challenging but was carried out fairly and compassionately. I was particularly grateful for the adjustments made by the JAC to my interview timings, which enabled me to attend whilst on maternity leave.

The role of an ICC Judge has evolved since I was appointed, with much of the low-value bankruptcy work being transferred to be heard in the County Court. As a result, much of what I hear is high value, complex or urgent. The interim applications list, in particular, requires you to be ready for anything, and to digest large quantities of material and analyse the issues in a short space of time. Although not necessarily a surprise, I have swiftly learned that counsel time estimates are not always accurate in this regard!

Annual judicial training courses provide fantastic general training and are a great way to meet fellow judges and learn from their experience. On a more day-to-day basis, support comes from the other judges in the ICC, who are friendly and approachable. They have a truly “open door” policy, and unerring patience in answering questions. The court staff are also fantastic – their support is invaluable, and they will often know the answer to more administrative queries.

When you’re sitting, every day is a school day. No two cases are the same, and no two issues are identically argued by the counsel appearing before you. I see a wide range of cases, and an equally wide range of advocacy. Sitting has certainly made me think carefully about how I present my own cases, and has, I feel, made me a better barrister. Overall, the work is stimulating and challenging, and complements a career at the Bar.