Mykhailo Zhernakov

Mykhailo Zhernakov (born in 1985) is a Ukrainian lawyer, co-founder and the Chair of the Board of DEJURE Foundation, a leading NGO in judicial reform in Ukraine. Former judge of Vinnytsia District administrative court (2012-2015). Joined civil society as an independent expert in early March 2014 after the Revolution of Dignity. Resigned from the position of a judge in 2015 to work full-time on judicial reform in the NGO sector. Studied Law in Kharkiv, Ukraine. PhD in Law (Kyiv, 2009), LL.M. (Rotterdam, 2009, Bologna, 2010), Dr Habil (Kyiv, 2016).

Zhernaov took direct part in the development of Ukraine’s judicial reform, was one of the advocates for the renewal of the judiciary, creation of the new Supreme Court in Ukraine and the active participation of the civil society in the selection of judges. Coordinator of the Public Integrity Council, a civic body responsible for integrity checks of judges and candidates for the judgeship.

Author of more than 150 articles, policy papers and other materials on judicial reform and transformation, administrative and tax law.