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3 judges, coroners move into new roles in Qld courts
There have been a number of key moves across Queensland’s courts, including two new justices in the Supreme Court.
Naomi Neilson
Queensland’s Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath announced both Michael Copley KC and Rebecca Treston KC, each with extensive experience, have been appointed to the Supreme Court bench.
Justice Copley has been a senior counsel since 2008, Queen’s counsel in 2013, and a crown prosecutor for almost 20 years.
“Rebecca Treston has served as an inspiration amongst her peers, and Michael Copley’s résumé speaks for itself.
“Both will be fine additions to the bench, and I wish them the very best in their judicial careers,” D’Ath said.
Justice Susan Brown KC was appointed to the Court of Appeal after more than seven years as a Supreme Court justice.
In addition to serving as a vice-president of Queensland’s Bar Association, Justice Brown has been a director of the Law Council of Australia and Supreme Court Library Committee.
“Her Honour Justice Sue Brown is equally admired for her intellect, hard work and achievements,” D’Ath said.
In the Coroner’s Court, D’Ath has appointed both Megan Fairweather and Amanda Bain as part of a $34 million injection into the court to address the 30 per cent increase in reportable deaths.
Magistrate Fairweather was the former chief legal counsel for Queensland Health, where she oversaw a range of critical work across complex commercial, clinical, and coronial matters.
Magistrate Bain has more than 20 years of experience with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and Crown Law.
“The new positions will help reduce backlogs, improve timelines and provide better delivery of trauma-informed services.
“Both Magistrate Fairweather and Magistrate Bain possess a broad, well-rounded understanding of the justice system and are highly deserving of their appointments,” D’Ath said.
Naomi Neilson
Naomi Neilson is a senior journalist with a focus on court reporting for Lawyers Weekly.
You can email Naomi at:
