Justice in Tribunals, 5th Edition

"Justice in Tribunals, 5th Edition" by J R S Forbes is a comprehensive legal text that delves into the law governing quasi-judicial authorities, including government departments, professional societies, industrial bodies, sporting organizations, and political parties. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Administrative Law: The book covers the jurisdictional limits, procedures, and rights flowing from both statutory and domestic tribunal proceedings. It provides a thorough examination of the common law and statutory rules governing decisions of administrative tribunals and executive officers.

2. Decision-Making Processes: The text explores various stages of decision-making, including notice of the charge or claim, urgent action, legal representation, standards of proof, the significance of the law of evidence, procedure at the hearing, errors of law or due process, and the articulation of reasons for a decision.

3. Public Inquiries: A special chapter is dedicated to the conduct of public inquiries, such as Royal Commissions, which do not formally determine rights and duties of individuals.

4. Challenging Tribunal Decisions: The book explains the different procedures used to challenge statutory as well as private ("domestic") rulings, providing insights into how these challenges are managed within the legal framework.

Plot Summary

The book is structured to provide a detailed and accessible guide to the workings of tribunals. It covers a broad range of topics, including:

• Jurisdictional Limits: Exploring the boundaries within which tribunals operate.
• Procedures: Detailed examination of the processes involved in tribunal proceedings.
• Rights and Duties: Analyzing the rights and duties of individuals in the context of tribunal decisions.
• Evidence and Proof: Discussing the significance of evidence and standards of proof in tribunal hearings.
• Public Inquiries: Examining the role and conduct of public inquiries like Royal Commissions.

Critical Reception

The book has received positive reviews from legal professionals and academics:

• Phillip Taylor MBE Review: Described as an "excellent exposition" of the subject matter, highlighting its comprehensive coverage and accessible presentation.
• Kate Slack, Hearsay: Praised for its authoritative status in the field of administrative law, with the latest edition further cementing its position as a valuable resource for public lawyers.
• Julius Moller, The Queensland Lawyer: Commended for its detailed coverage of tribunals, including discrimination and sports tribunals, and its accessible presentation of complex legal concepts.

Author Background

Dr. J R S Forbes is a renowned expert in administrative law. He was educated at Nudgee College, Brisbane, Waverley College, Sydney, and the University of Sydney, where he graduated with honors. He is a barrister of the NSW and Queensland Supreme Courts and has served on various tribunals and committees, including the Misconduct Tribunal of the Criminal Justice Commission (Qld) and the Judicial Appeals Committee of the Queensland Rugby Union.

Edition Details

The 5th edition of "Justice in Tribunals" is available in digital format, offering built-in study tools, read-aloud functionality, and offline access. It is published by The Federation Press and priced at $96.00 USD.