PRESS RELEASE : Solicitor General Robert Courts sworn in [January 2024]

The press release issued by the Attorney General’s Office on 22 January 2024.

The Solicitor General was sworn in today during a ceremony attended by the Lord Chancellor.

Robert Courts KC MP was today sworn in as His Majesty’s Solicitor General at a ceremony attended by the Lord Chancellor and Clerk to the Crown.

The Solicitor General was also appointed to the rank and office of King’s Counsel (KC).

Speaking after the ceremony, HM Solicitor General Robert Courts KC MP said:

It is a great honour and privilege to be sworn-in today as Solicitor General for England and Wales.

The Law Officers have an important and unique role advising the government and I look forward to working with the Attorney General, government lawyers, and the Civil Service upholding the rule of law at the heart of the UK constitution.

The Solicitor General supports the Attorney General in her role as the Government’s chief legal adviser. Alongside the Attorney, the Solicitor General oversees the work of the Law Officers’ Departments: the Crown Prosecution Service, the Serious Fraud Office, the Government Legal Department and HM Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate.

The Solicitor General carries out important functions in the public interest, such as considering whether to refer unduly lenient sentences to the Court of Appeal and taking action when there has been a contempt of court.

These functions are carried out independently of the Solicitor’s role as a government minister.

The Attorney General, Rt Hon Victoria Prentis KC MP, said:

Congratulations to Robert Courts MP for being sworn in as Solicitor General for England and Wales. I look forward to working with you advising the Government, superintending government departments, and upholding the rule of law.

Robert Courts KC MP was appointed as Solicitor General for England and Wales on 7 December 2023.