Tributes paid to 'much-loved' judge who died in traffic incident

Tributes have been paid to a recently-appointed district judge who died on Friday after a collision on Birmingham’s Aston Expressway. According to West Midlands Police, Matthew Mawdsley was struck first by a vehicle that failed to stop, and subsequently hit by two other cars which did stop.

A 32-year man held on suspicion of causing death by careless driving while under the influence of drink was released while under investigation.

Mawdsley, 54, formerly of St. John’s Buildings, had been appointed to the District Court bench on 5 December, and assigned to the Midlands Circuit, based in Birmingham, having previously served as a Deputy District judge since 2019.

Called to the bar in 1991, Mawdsley practised in personal injury law, focusing on employers’ and public liability claims, including for the police and local authorities.

In a statement released by police, his family paid tribute, saying they were 'heartbroken at the loss of our beloved Matt. He was a treasured father-of-three, husband, son and brother, as well as being a valued friend and respected colleague to so many people.'

Mawdsley 'achieved much in his long career as a barrister, especially his recent appointment as a district judge, but it was his warmth, humour, kindness and generosity that made him so well loved’.

Charles Bagot KC, chair of the Personal Injury Bar Association, called Mawdsley 'highly respected', while Daryl Allen KC of Byrom Street Chambers recalled how 'kind and generous he was to everybody'.

St John’s Buildings said Mawdsley was 'a much loved and hugely respected member of chambers for over 20 years', adding 'just a few weeks ago we had celebrated the latest chapter in his successful career', with his wife, a former member of the set, family, friends and colleagues.

The set added anyone wishing to send condolences should contact Chris Ronan, chief executive at St John’s Buildings.

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