Public should not appoint judiciary: Former Chief Magistrate

The former Chief Magistrate of Victoria says the public should not get a say in the appointment of the state’s judges and magistrates.

The idea was put forward by Federal Home Secretary Peter Dutton, who speaking on our Sydney sister station 2BG, said state governments should publicly put out the names of people they’re nominating for the judiciary.

Former Chief Magistrate of Victoria, now criminal barrister Nick Papas QC said the idea was very concerning.

“We’ve got an independent judiciary that should be appointed on merit, not looking at the next election,” Mr Papas said.

“Imagine the carry-on!

“Imagine me or anyone on a poster, talking about how tough you’re going to be on imprisonment.

“If you’re being appointed by government you might carry favour.”

Click PLAY below to hear Nick’s comments

It comes after Magistrate Ross Maxted yesterday released a man on bail, saying he only did so because the government’s new laws had not yet come into effect.