A top judge has dealt a blow to ‘the patriarchy’ by downgrading the status of ‘Mr’ on her court papers.
Queensland Chief Justice Helen Bowskill used a Pride in Law speech last Thursday to point out the subtle way she has put men in their place by changing court forms to list preferred expressions as ‘ma’am/sir’ rather than the normal ‘sir/madam’ order.
“Sir” always comes first in every greeting. “I have quietly turned this around so that ‘ma’am’ now comes first,” she said.
“Maybe no one would have noticed this… until now.”
Queensland Chief Justice Helen Bowskill has elevated ‘Madam’ before ‘Mr’ on court forms
Judge Bowskill also supports the Queensland Supreme Court edict introduced earlier this year directing people appearing in court to name their preferred pronouns.
“The idea behind the practice direction is to simply make it the ‘norm,’” she said.
‘If you want to pass that information on to the judge, you can do so without having to distinguish yourself. Your difference is respected; but you don’t have to fight for that respect.’
Chief Justice Bowskill said the move had been welcomed.
“It could be something small; and there may be only a relatively small number of people who are directly affected,” she said.
“But from what I’ve been told by quite a few people, it’s been a major thing. It provides visibility and an easy and understated way to express your preference.’
She also wanted to see more diversity and inclusivity in legal circles.
“I am eager to learn, understand and help address issues where I can,” she said.
‘Organisations such as Pride in Law and the professional working groups set up by the Queensland Law Society or the Bar Association of Queensland, for example, are important as a communication channel for ideas.’
Judge Bowskill said she wanted to see more diversity and inclusivity in legal circles
Ultimately, it was about respecting others, Judge Bowskill said.
“Perhaps to be valued for who we are, our abilities, qualities and achievements, and for what we contribute to society, not for what we look like, where we come from or who we love,” she said.
‘Perhaps to have our feelings, wishes, preferences and rights recognised; and to be treated equally, regardless of our differences.
‘To not have to fight or demand for equal treatment, but to be able to expect it.
‘To be encouraged to be proud of who we are, because we are respected for that.
“All we’re asking for is a little respect, at home, at work, in the community.”
South Australia, Victoria and Queensland have released practice notes requiring court visitors to refer to parties by their preferred pronouns.
NSW judges have the option to choose whether or not to use preferred pronouns when referring to suspects.
Three appeal judges last week chose to use male pronouns when referring to a transgender suspect.