Star legal podcast brings fierce debate and sharp wit to Ripon

Three of Britain’s most formidable legal minds — Baroness Helena Kennedy (leading human rights lawyer), Lord Charlie Falconer (former Lord Chancellor), and Sir Nicholas Mostyn (retired High Court Judge) — are heading north for a no-holds-barred live debate at Ripon Cathedral on Thursday November 13 2025 at 7.30pm.

The trio, whose acclaimed podcast Law & Disorder has become a hit for its lively exchanges, will take on one of the most provocative questions in British justice:

Should we abolish trial by jury?

A cornerstone of English law since Magna Carta, the right to be tried by one’s peers has long been seen as a pillar of liberty — but does it still serve justice today? Expect sharp insight, humour, and strong opinions as the panel test this centuries-old institution under the magnificent roof of one of England’s oldest cathedrals.

Following the debate, the audience will have the chance to put their own legal questions – from current affairs to courtroom dramas – to the panel in an open Q&A session, chaired by acclaimed broadcaster and family law mediator Joanna Gosling.

The Very Reverend John Dobson, Dean of Ripon, said: “For more than 1,300 years, Ripon Cathedral has been a place where questions of justice, morality, and faith are explored. I am delighted that this initiative between the cathedral and the High Sheriff of North Yorkshire continues that tradition.”

Sir Andrew Lawson-Tancred Bt, High Sheriff of North Yorkshire, added: “As the King’s Representative for Law & Order in North Yorkshire, I am thrilled that this event will challenge us all to think about how justice can best be delivered in a modern democratic society.”

The event is kindly sponsored by Irwin Mitchell LLP.

Tickets: £20 (general admission) / £10 (students & barristers in pupillage) available now from Law & Disorder Live – Ripon Cathedral

Editor’s notes

Baroness Helena Kennedy KC

One of Britain’s most prominent human rights lawyers, campaigner for social justice, and a leading voice in Parliament. Baroness Kennedy has fought tirelessly for justice and equality throughout her career. Her insights on issues at the intersection of law, politics, and social justice are both profound and highly influential. Her best-selling books include Eve Was Shamed, Eve Was Framed and Misjustice: How British law is failing women.

Lord Charlie Falconer KC

Formally Lord Chancellor and a senior Labour peer, he brings decades of experience in government, politics, and the law. A key figure in modern British constitutional reform, Lord Falconer served as Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice under Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Sir Nicholas Mostyn

A distinguished retired High Court judge of the family division. Throughout his distinguished career, Sir Nicholas was involved in many landmark cases and remains a fierce critic of public administrative failures. Since retiring from the bench due to Parkinson’s disease, he has continued to contribute to public debate as a co-host of the award-winning Movers and Shakers podcast.