MAGISTRATE Lorraine Walker has been named the ACT’s Chief Magistrate.

Magistrate Walker was first appointed to the ACT Magistrates Court in April 2010. Prior to her appointment as a Magistrate she had over 20 years experience in the legal profession and worked as a barrister in the ACT for the 10 years prior to her court appointment.

Magistrate Walker has extensive experience including as a partner of a law firm, a crown prosecutor, a solicitor and a legal officer in the Royal Australian Air Force. She also tutored at the Australian National University and mentored junior practitioners.

The selection process for the position included a request for nominations from a wide range of stakeholders and a public notice seeking expressions of interest and nominations to attract a wide range of candidates for the position.

Expressions of interest and nominations were considered by a selection advisory committee consisting of Kathy Leigh, director-general of Justice and Community Safety Directorate, Judge Graeme Henson the Chief Magistrate of NSW and Mr Michael Peedom, President of the Legal Aid Commission of the ACT.

The panel interviewed a number of candidates, nominated by individuals, professional groups and legal bodies and provided advice to the Government.

The Government will immediately commence a selection process to fill the vacancy in the office of Magistrate.