Roy Beldam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Roy Beldam
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| Lord Justice of Appeal | |
| In office 1989–2000 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | 29 March 1925 |
| Died | 16 October 2020 (aged 95) |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Judge |
| Profession | Barrister |
Sir Alexander Roy Asplin Beldam (born March 29, 1925 – died October 16, 2020) was an important British judge. He was a Lord Justice of Appeal in England and Wales from 1989 until 2000. This means he was a senior judge in a very important court that reviews decisions made by lower courts. He was also a member of the Privy Council, a special group of advisors to the King or Queen.
Early Life and Education
Roy Beldam was the son of George Beldam, who was a professional cricket player and photographer. His mother was Margaret Underwood.
He went to Oundle School when he was younger. During World War II, he joined the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm. This was the part of the navy that used aircraft. He flew as an Observer in Grumman Avenger planes with the British Pacific Fleet, which was a group of British Navy ships in the Pacific Ocean.
A Career in Law
Roy Beldam became a lawyer, or was "called to the Bar," in 1950. Later, in 1969, he became a Queen's Counsel. This title is given to very experienced and respected lawyers.
In 1972, he started working as a Recorder, which is a type of judge. He then became a judge of the High Court in 1981. When someone becomes a High Court judge, they usually receive a knighthood, which is why he was known as "Sir Roy Beldam."
In 1989, he was promoted to the Court of Appeal of England and Wales. This is a higher court where judges review decisions from other courts. He worked there until he retired in 2000. That same year, he also became a member of the Privy Council.
Sir Roy Beldam had other important roles too. From 1976 to 1981, he was a Legal Assessor for the General Medical Council. This meant he advised them on legal matters related to medicine. From 1985 to 1989, he was the Chairman of the Law Commission. This group works to improve and update laws. He was also a Bencher of the Inner Temple, which is one of the four professional associations for barristers in London.
His daughter, Alexandra Beldam, also became a lawyer in 1981. She holds important positions in the legal system, including Registrar of Criminal Appeals and Master of the Crown Office.
Sir Roy Beldam passed away on October 16, 2020, when he was 95 years old.
