It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our chairman Lord Justice William Davis on Saturday 7 June 2025, aged 70. The members of the Sentencing Council and its office extend their heartfelt condolences to Lady Davis and their children during this difficult time.

Lord Justice Davis was appointed as Chairman of the Sentencing Council in August 2022, having previously been a judicial member from 2012 to 2015. He was dedicated to his role, exemplifying an unwavering commitment to public service.

His distinguished legal career began when he was called to the Bar in Birmingham in 1976, specialising in criminal and personal injury work. His progression through the judiciary included appointments as Assistant Recorder in 1992, Recorder in 1995, and Queen’s Counsel in 1998. He was head of St Philips Chambers from 2004 to 2008.

In 2008, he was appointed to the Circuit Bench, and the following year became a Deputy High Court Judge, a Senior Circuit Judge, and the Honorary Recorder of Birmingham. He was appointed to the High Court Bench in May 2014, and he served as Presiding Judge of the Northern Circuit from 2016 to 2019.

Lord Justice Davis made significant contributions as Judicial Lead on Youth Justice (2014-2022) and as Director of Criminal Training for the Judicial College (2014-2019). His appointment to the Court of Appeal in 2021 recognised his expertise in criminal law, where he delivered judgments of exceptional quality, particularly in sentencing matters.

True to his character, he remained diligently engaged in his work until his passing, maintaining his trademark good humour and sharp wit throughout. His passion for the law was evident in his tireless dedication. The Council and the wider legal community mourns the loss of an outstanding judge and a truly remarkable man whose legacy will endure in the justice system he served so devotedly.