A dramatic courtroom confrontation at Leeds Crown Court has captured public attention after a judge's extraordinary outburst towards a defiant defendant.
His Honour Judge Simon Phillips KC erupted with fury when Shaun Gorman, 36, refused to stand as is customary court protocol. In a moment that's since gone viral, the judge shouted: "Bend the knee!" at the uncooperative defendant.
The Tense Standoff
The incident unfolded during what should have been a routine hearing. Gorman, facing serious charges including assault and criminal damage, remained seated despite court tradition requiring defendants to stand when addressed by the judge.
Court transcripts reveal the escalating tension as Judge Phillips repeatedly demanded Gorman rise to his feet. "Stand up, please," the judge stated firmly, only to be met with stubborn refusal.
'Bend the Knee' Moment Goes Viral
When polite requests failed, Judge Phillips's patience snapped. His "Bend the knee!" command immediately drew comparisons to ceremonial language from fantasy epics, though the context was anything but fictional.
The phrase has since spread across social media platforms, with many expressing surprise at the judge's choice of words while others defended his need to maintain courtroom authority.
Legal Consequences
Gorman's defiance continued throughout the hearing, with the judge eventually warning him about the potential impact on his sentencing. "Your refusal to stand demonstrates a lack of respect for the court," Judge Phillips noted, adding that such behaviour wouldn't work in his favour.
The defendant's legal team attempted to mitigate, but the damage to his standing with the court appeared significant.
Court Protocol Explained
Legal experts have since clarified that while standing for the judge is customary rather than strictly required by law, deliberate refusal is generally viewed as contemptuous behaviour. Such actions can influence sentencing outcomes and judicial perception of remorse and respect for the legal process.
The incident highlights the delicate balance judges must maintain between courtroom decorum and responding to deliberate provocation.
