Lawyers Weekly report
Following the news of Chief Justice Tom Bathurst’s retirement, the next Chief Justice of NSW has been named, as well as a new President of the NSW Court of Appeal.
Earlier today, Her Excellency the Governor of NSW, the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, appointed the Honourable Justice Andrew Bell as the next Chief Justice of New South Wales.
Bell J – who is the current President of the NSW Court of Appeal – was praised by NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman MP for his “renowned intellect and leadership”, making him a “worthy successor” to Chief Justice Tom Bathurst AC.
Bathurst CJ is set to retire from the Supreme Court on 5 March 2022.
“Justice Bell’s ascent to the pinnacle of the NSW justice system comes after remarkable academic achievements, including two University Medals from Sydney University, a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford University, first place there in the (post-graduate) Bachelor of Civil Law and a doctorate there,” A-G Speakman said.
“His Honour began his legal career with two consecutive terms as a judge’s associate, including to then Chief Justice of Australia Sir Anthony Mason AC KBE QC. This early recognition of Justice Bell’s ability continued throughout his career.”
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