TWO SOLICITORS TO JOIN LOCAL COURT BENCH

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Attorney General John Hatzistergos today announced the appointments of solicitors Stephen Corry and Susan McIntyre to the bench of the NSW Local Court.

"Magistrates are responsible for a substantial and diverse workload," said Mr Hatzistergos.

"Both Mr Corry's and Ms McIntyre's experience working in local courts places them in good stead to handle the challenges of the position."

Mr Hatzistergos said the solicitors had worked extensively in the criminal jurisdiction and had acted in a range of matters involving children.

Mr Corry, currently a partner in a legal practice in Penrith, began his career in Walgett in north western NSW in 1977.

He has been an advocate for disadvantaged members of the western Sydney community and has represented clients at the Independent Commission Against Corruption and the Police Integrity Commission. He has also been a principal legal officer for the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions.

Mr Hatzistergos said Ms McIntyre has had 14-year career as a solicitor and has a Masters of Laws from the University of Sydney.

She has provided advice and representation on matters in the District and Supreme courts and is a member of Legal Aid panels for criminal matters in the Children's and Local courts.

Mr Hatzistergos said Ms McIntyre would serve as a part-time magistrate.

The two new magistrates will be sworn in on Monday, 11 August 2008.

"I wish both Ms McIntyre and Mr Corry every success in their new roles," Mr Hatzistergos said.