ABSTRACT
This chapter helps the readers to understand the role of cultural expertise in LGBTQIA+ issues in the courts and judiciary. It also helps the readers to familiarise with cultural expertise in cases where LGBTQIA+ factors, mainly in the UK's legal system but also drawing on other systems. The discussion approaches cultural expertise from three directions: first, the use of specific LGBTQIA+ culture and life experience experts by courts; second, the incorporation of “vicarious” expertise via non-binding guidance to judges from other judges, as “best practice”; and third, the infusion of firsthand LGBTQIA+ expertise into the legal system through diversification of the judiciary. There is variation in acceptance of sexual and gender identity concepts between jurisdictions and varied acceptance of LGBTQIA+ people as meriting recognition that they have “cultural” experience at all. It is important in the context of the United Kingdom jurisdictions to be aware of this history of LGBTQIA+ recognition and civil rights.
