Sir Gilbert Hawkesby had the reputation of being a just and able judge, a man of fine intellect, great vigour, and immense determination of character.

On the bench he looked the part which popular imagination had given him to play.

His eyes were described as "steely" by a lady journalist, who had occasion to watch him during the sensational trial of Mrs.Lorimer.

His chin she described later on in her article as "characteristic of a strong fighter." His manner in court was exceedingly severe.

In private life, especially during his summer holiday, he tried not to look like a judge, and was always pleased when strangers mistook him for a country gentleman, the owner of a landed property.