Chief Judge of Qld District Court approved
Judge Kerry O'Brien has been approved as the new Chief Judge of Queensland's District Court.
Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie says Justice O'Brien's appointment was approved by the Governor in Council on Thursday.
"Judge O'Brien is an esteemed legal mind with extensive judicial and administrative skills and experience," Mr Bleijie said.
Justice O'Brien's legal career spans more than 25 years.
He's served as Townsville's Director of Public Prosecutions, as a judge in the District Court, the president of the Childrens' Court and Queensland's Judge Administrator.
Mr Bleijie said the appointment followed extensive consultation with the legal profession.
He said current Chief Judge Patsy Wolfe would retire at the weekend.
"I thank Her Honour for her service to the state, which has spanned nearly two decades, and her unwavering commitment to justice for Queenslanders," Mr Bleijie said.
"Her strong advocacy was instrumental in the government's decision to bolster judicial ranks."
The attorney-general also announced that a new District Court judge, based in Cairns, would soon be appointed.
