The role of the Sheriffs

Elected by the Livery, and subsequently approved by the Sovereign as his judicial representatives, the role of the Sheriffs of the City of London is based around two key tenets: to form an integral part of the City of London Corporation’s Civic Team in support of the Lord Mayor; and to support and uphold the rule of law as custodians of the Old Bailey.

The activity of the Sheriffs will align with the objectives and priorities of the Mayoralty and the wider City of London Corporation. The support provided to the Lord Mayor will be in relation to the Lord Mayor’s role as an ambassador for the UK financial and professional services (FPS) sector, as well as across the full range of their civic, diplomatic and ceremonial activities. The Sheriffs will also, as senior City of London Corporation representatives, play an important role in advancing key areas of the City of London Corporation’s five-year Corporate Plan.

The Sheriffs are responsible for advancing the City’s engagement with the wider civic, philanthropic, legal and business communities through stakeholder events held at the Old Bailey and engagement with specific outreach programmes run through the court. The Sheriffs also support fundraising efforts on behalf of the Sheriffs’ and Recorder’s Fund, which works to support the rehabilitation of prison-leavers and their families.