Simon Corbell has announced the appointment of Chief Magistrate John Burns to the Supreme Court, replacing the retiring Justice Malcolm Gray:
“John Burns is a well-known and highly respected member of the Canberra community and ACT legal profession and has a long-standing reputation as an effective and diligent magistrate.”
Mr Burns has served as a magistrate and coroner in the ACT since 1990. Prior to commencing service in the Magistrates Court, Mr Burns practised as a solicitor and later was an barrister in Canberra.
While on the bench, Mr Burns has also served as a presidential member on a number of tribunals including; the Mental Health Tribunal; Guardianship and Management of Property Tribunal; Discrimination Tribunal; Health Professions Tribunal and Credit Tribunal.
Prior to taking up the role of Chief Magistrate, Mr Burns had extensive experience within the court across both civil and criminal matters.
In particular, he served on the ACT Children’s Court and as List Coordinating Magistrate responsible for case management processes in all criminal matters in both the Magistrates and Children’s Courts. He has been a member of the ACT Courts Rules Committee.
“John Burns will bring significant expertise and judgement to the Supreme Court,” Mr Corbell said.
The appointment starts 1 August. No word on a replacement magistrate.