The CLP Government has welcomed the appointment of three experienced Acting Judges to the Local Court.
Ms Sally Ozolins and Mr Steven Ledek will serve during the absence of two judges on leave, while Mr Giles O'Brien-Hartcher has been appointed to assist with increasing demand on the Court.
Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby said: "We anticipate increased demand on the courts in the coming months due to our strengthened laws, and these appointments are part of our broader commitment to ensure the system has the resources to meet these challenges."
"This is not a 'set and forget' approach - we are continuing to work closely with the courts to provide the necessary support to manage cases efficiently and ensure justice for victims," said Ms Boothby.
"These appointments of the Acting Judges are part of our plan to ensure justice for victims and ensure our courts can handle increasing demand with efficiency and fairness.
"The CLP is committed to delivering on its plan to support victims, address inefficiencies, and meet the expectations of Territorians, ensuring a safer and stronger future."
Mr Ledek and Mr O'Brien-Hartcher commenced their appointments last week, with Ms Ozolins set to join later this month.
JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS
Ms Sally Ozolins:Distinguished public sector career, including roles as Crown Prosecutor and Deputy Coroner.Admitted to the NT Supreme Court in 2002 and the High Court of Australia in 2006.Practising as a Barrister at Murray Chambers since 2019, with expertise in criminal law, coronial inquests, administrative law, gambling, and liquor licensing regulation.Mr Steven Ledek:Began his legal career in 2005 as an NT Courts Registrar.Senior Crown Prosecutor with the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for 15 years, successfully prosecuting high-profile cases.Extensive trial experience across criminal disciplines, including fraud, sexual offending, drug matters, high-level violence, youth crime, domestic violence, and mental impairment cases.Mr Giles O'Brien-Hartcher:Practising in the Territory since 2005, with expertise in civil, criminal, and administrative law.Former Senior Lawyer and Appeals Manager at NAAJA; joined John Toohey Chambers in 2016.Lead counsel in Supreme Court criminal trials, with experience across traffic, assaults, drug offences, DVOs, and other criminal matters.
