Judge caught drinking on the job, formally warned by bosses

An employment judge who was caught drinking at work has received a formal warning from the bosses.

Pauline Hughes sank alcohol in her rooms during a break in a case in August.

Judge Hughes said she had

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Judge Hughes said she had “little recollection” of the Birmingham incidentCredit: Alamy

The hearing was stopped when her two colleagues on the panel noticed that she appeared drunk.

Judge Hughes said she had “little recollection” of the incident in Birmingham.

She did not dispute drinking on the premises.

A source said: “It’s shocking and disturbing behavior from someone in that position.”

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The Bureau of Judicial Investigation said it had taken into account Judge Hughes’ remorse.

It added: “Judge Hughes, who served on the tribunal for many years, has given assurances about her future conduct, including in relation to alcohol consumption.”