21/06/2024
Congratulations to former Orange resident and Barrister, District Court Judge Michael Allen, who this week was announced the new Chief Magistrate of NSW.
Michael and I were often opponents across the bar table in the local court from my prosecution days. He was a formidable opponent, but a thoroughly decent, fair and genuine individual.
Michael always meticulously prepared his cases, and was one of the best cross examiners I ever witnessed and his court room advocacy was top shelf.
I always looked-up to Michael and saw him as a mentor, and friend. I’m sure many other junior solicitors, barristers and prosecutors would say the same!
Some years later Michael went onto became a local court magistrate, where again I had the privilege of serving as the prosecutor in his court at both Bathurst, Mudgee and occasionally Orange for a couple of years.
Michael knew the law, kept up to date on new cases and principles and his broad general life experience made him an excellent judicial officer.
Always fair and when needed very firm, but always very courteous and thoroughly decent.
In 2023 Michael was appointed as Judge of the District Court and has been presiding at Penrith for the last couple of years.
So I was extremely pleased to see Michael announced as the new Chief after nearly 40 years practice in the law.
A thoroughly deserving and rewarding appointment for this important role.
I couldn’t think of anyone better to lead the Local Court in NSW.
Congratulations Judge Allen on this appointment. I am confident you will do a terrific job.