The complaint was informally resolved through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and the file was closed.
The Complainant was legal counsel for a claimant whose case was heard by a Member of the Immigration Division. The complaint alleged that the Member was visibly hostile, which the Complainant viewed as an attempt to prevent them from representing their client. During the hearing, the Member acknowledged their behaviour and apologised.
The Office of the Ombudsperson contacted both parties, who indicated they would be interested in ADR. After speaking to the Member about the complaint, the Office of the Ombudsperson shared the Member's thoughts and reflections with the Complainant. The Complainant was satisfied and indicated that their concerns were resolved, and the file was closed.