In 1990, I was two years of age. At that time, Nick Hanning had become a Fellow of ILEX. I had not even heard of ILEX (later CILEX) until my last year of my History degree in 2010. By then, Nick had become one of the first Legal Executives to become a partner in the law firm and fone of the first to become a Legal Executive Advocate.
He then became the President of ILEX between 2012 and 2013. He didn’t stop there though. He was also appointed to the Board of CILEX Regulation, became a Deputy District Judge and a Fee Paid Employment Tribunal Judge.
Finally, he was the very first CILEX Lawyer to be appointed as a Recorder, a part time Circuit Judge.
Sadly, Nick passed away. He was diagnosed with cancer some time ago, shortly before he sat the final part of his judicial application. That, in itself shows just what type of person Nick was, determined even in the face of what would have been devistating news.
I reported about how CILEX Lawyers could apply to be Recorders and it was therefore not a surprise (and if so, a pleasant surprise) for Nick to be announced as the first CILEX Recorder.
I am going to feel quite sad attending the higher rights course with other CILEX lawyers, knowing that Nick, who has done more for CILEX than I ever will, will not have the opportunity to tick off the next box in his CILEX achievements.
I never met Nick, but I look forward to hearing stories and anecdotes about him. No doubt all other CILEX members will keep Nick’s memory alive.
Rest in Peace