The Victorian Bar
Page 1 of 1
Media release
Tuesday 24 November 2009
Victorian Bar applauds Silks appointments and process
The Victorian Bar today applauded the appointment of 13 new silks by the Chief
Justice, and the process taken to assess and confer the appointments to the highest
level of seniority at the Bar.
‘The Bar is consulted by the Chief Justice during the confidential process to assess
applicants and we are very pleased at the diversity in the new appointments – both in
terms of the areas of practice of the new silks and the fact that three of the 13 are
women,’ said Mr Michael Colbran QC, Chairman of the Victorian Bar.
Victoria’s newest silks include:
David Leslie Brustman
Kirsty Marion Macmillan
Francis James Tiernan
Michael Damien Wilson
Nicholas Papas
Andrew James Tinney
Maryanne Hartley
Michael Damian Wyles
Andrew John Keogh
Philip David Crutchfield
Simon Harry Steward
Peter James Morrissey
Rachel Marie Doyle
‘The appointment process for Senior Counsel is characterized by great thoroughness
and care. A great deal of effort and consideration goes into each application. ,’ he
said. ‘We congratulate all our new Silks’
The applications have been under consideration by the Chief Justice since August.
‘The Bar thanks the Chief Justice, and the Judges of the Supreme Court who assist
her, for the time, care and thoroughness given to considering the applications and
making the selection,’ Mr Colbran concluded.
Unsuccessful applicants can seek feedback from the Chairman of the Bar Council,
who consults with the Chief Justice in accordance with the protocol for appointment
of Silk established by the Court.
More about the process can be found in the “Applications for Silk” guidelines which
accompany the application form available on the Supreme Court website
Media inquiries: Alicia Patterson, Victorian Bar Media Liaison, 0403 172024
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