Lawrence Collins, Baron Collins of Mapesbury, English lawyer and judge

Lawrence Antony Collins, Baron Collins of Mapesbury, born on 7 May 1941, stands as a distinguished figure in the British legal landscape, renowned for his significant contributions as a judge, a former Justice of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom, and an esteemed international arbitrator. His career trajectory showcases a remarkable blend of private practice, high judicial office, and international legal engagement.

A Distinguished Judicial Career

Lord Collins's journey to the pinnacle of the British judiciary saw him serve as a Justice of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom, the nation's highest judicial body. This role involved adjudicating cases of profound constitutional and legal significance, shaping jurisprudence across a wide array of legal disciplines. Before his elevation to the Supreme Court, he honed his expertise through a successful career in private practice, notably as a partner at the prominent British law firm Herbert Smith (now Herbert Smith Freehills), where he gained invaluable experience that would later inform his judicial decisions.

International Impact: The Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal

Demonstrating his international standing and expertise in common law, Lord Collins was appointed as a non-permanent judge to the Court of Final Appeal of Hong Kong on 11 April 2011. This appointment is particularly noteworthy as Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China, maintains a common law system distinct from mainland China. The Court of Final Appeal frequently invites eminent judges from other common law jurisdictions to sit on its panels, enriching its decisions with a broader perspective and reinforcing the judicial independence of Hong Kong. Lord Collins continues to contribute to this crucial institution, underscoring his enduring commitment to the common law tradition.

Life Beyond the Bench: Arbitration and Academia

Following his tenure on the Supreme Court, Lord Collins transitioned into a dynamic post-judicial career. He now operates as a full-time international arbitrator, leveraging his extensive experience in complex legal disputes to facilitate resolutions outside traditional court settings. This role is highly sought after by parties engaged in cross-border commercial and investment disputes, valuing his impartiality and deep understanding of international law. Furthermore, his commitment to legal education is evident through his role as an adjunct professor of law at NYU School of Law, where he shares his vast knowledge and practical insights with future generations of legal professionals. His continued presence on the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal further exemplifies his multifaceted contributions to the global legal community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Lawrence Antony Collins, Baron Collins of Mapesbury?

He is a distinguished British judge, formerly a Justice of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom, and now an international arbitrator and an adjunct professor of law, who also serves on the Court of Final Appeal of Hong Kong.

What is the significance of "Baron Collins of Mapesbury"?

This title indicates that he holds a peerage for life, elevating him to the House of Lords, although his primary contributions have been in the judiciary. "Mapesbury" is a geographical identifier associated with his peerage.

What is the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom?

It is the highest court in the United Kingdom for civil cases from all three UK jurisdictions (England and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland), and for criminal cases from England and Wales and Northern Ireland. Its decisions are binding on all other courts in the UK.

Why was he appointed to the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal?

The Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal, as part of its common law system, invites non-permanent judges from other common law jurisdictions (like the UK) to contribute to its cases. This practice enhances the court's international standing and provides diverse legal perspectives.

What does an international arbitrator do?

An international arbitrator acts as an impartial third party in resolving disputes, often between businesses or states, through a process called arbitration, which is an alternative to traditional court litigation. Given his judicial background, Lord Collins is well-suited to this role, offering expert, binding decisions.