Tribunal Judge Asif Khan, Judge of the First-tier Tribunal, Health Education Social Care Chamber, and Employment Tribunal England and Wales

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“The work is intellectually stimulating, requiring careful legal reasoning and practical judgment, often across a wide range of evolving issues. Above all, I find great satisfaction in helping people feel heard and respected within the justice system especially those who may not always feel empowered to speak up.”

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Background

I grew up in South Wales, went to the local comprehensive school, and was the first person in my family ever to go to university.  Coming from a working-class background and a British Asian ethnic minority community has not only shaped my perspective but has been a source of strength and determination to succeed and contribute meaningfully to the legal profession.

I qualified as a solicitor in 2011 and have spent most of my career working in Mental Health Law, representing the vulnerable in society. I was able to set up my own legal practice in 2018, specialising in Mental Health Law and representing clients before tribunals, which has strengthened my capacity for clear, empathetic judgment and advocacy.

If I had to recognise a true turning point in my career, it would be soon after I graduated in 2004, when I applied for a position as a tribunal clerk in the Mental Health Review Tribunal. That opportunity opened my eyes to the critical role tribunals play in delivering justice to people from all walks of life. It was the moment I realised that a career in the justice system would allow me to combine my passion for fairness with practical, impactful work. That early experience has shaped my professional path ever since.

During my legal career, it never occurred to me to apply to be a judge. Being from an Asian background, I wasn’t sure whether I belonged in such a prestigious role, wrestling with imposter syndrome and the feeling of not quite belonging, doubting whether I deserved to be in spaces traditionally underrepresented by people like me.

However, I can now say without hesitation that the judiciary has been welcoming and inclusive from day one, offering support at every stage of my journey. The collegiality and guidance I’ve received has reinforced my sense of belonging and purpose within this vital institution.

The role

Since being appointed as Fee-paid Judge I have sat on a wide range of cases, splitting my sitting hours between the Mental Health Tribunal and Employment Tribunals, often dealing with patients and claimants from all walks of life, often with complex needs and at times unrepresented. I have found that, as time has progressed, my judgecraft has evolved and refined over time.

The appointment as a judge in the First-tier Tribunal, Health Education Social Care Chamber has given me the opportunity to sit with two experienced colleagues (medical and specialist tribunal members), whose perspectives and experiences can be different from my own, and who offer significant benefits that enhance the fairness, depth, and quality of decision-making.

In the jurisdiction of Employment Law, I often find that I am sitting alone on cases that focus on a specific point of law. This experience has helped me to understand and digest conflicting legal arguments and to be confident to decide either way.

What I enjoy most about working as a tribunal judge is the meaningful impact we have on individuals’ lives. The tribunal environment allows for a more personal and direct form of justice, where you see the human side of the law every day. I value the opportunity to listen carefully to all parties, often during highly sensitive or complex situations, and to ensure that decisions are made fairly, clearly, and compassionately.

The work is intellectually stimulating, requiring careful legal reasoning and practical judgment, often across a wide range of evolving issues. Above all, I find great satisfaction in helping people feel heard and respected within the justice system especially those who may not always feel empowered to speak up. That sense of service is what continues to motivate and inspire me in this role.

While there are now many solicitors represented at entry and mid-levels of the judiciary, this is still not the case at more senior levels. That said, the working environment is highly collegiate, inclusive, and supportive. I actively encourage lawyers from all backgrounds to consider applying, as diversity on the bench strengthens justice for everyone.

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