The Solicitor-General of Australian Capital Territory, often referred to as the Solicitor-General, is the territory's Second Law Officer, and the deputy of the Attorney-General. The Solicitor-General can exercise the powers of the Attorney-General in their absence. The Solicitor-General acts alongside the Crown Advocate and Crown Solicitor, and serves as one of the legal and constitutional advisers of the Crown and its government in the Australian Capital Territory.[1]
| Solicitor-General of Australian Capital Territory | |
|---|---|
| Justice and Community Safety Directorate | |
| Reports to | Attorney-General of the Australian Capital Territory |
| Appointer | ACT Legislative Assembly |
| Inaugural holder | Peter Garrison AM SC |
| Formation | 2011 |
The Solicitor-General is addressed in court as "Mr/Ms Solicitor". Despite the title, the position is currently occupied by a barrister, though any Australian legal practitioner of at least five years experience is eligible for appointment for a term of no more than seven years.[2] The inaugural and current Solicitor-General is Peter Garrison AM SC.[1][3]
History and function
editThe Law Officers Act 2011 (ACT) (the Act) provides for the office of Solicitor-General. The Act provides for an appointment for a term not exceeding seven years, with the possibility of renewal.[2]
Office-holders (2011-present)
edit| Name | Appointed | Concluded | Comments | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peter Garrison AM SC | August 2011 | Incumbent | Formerly Deputy Chief Solicitor | [1] |
References
edit- ^ a b c "Our Leadership Team | ACT Government Solicitor". actgs.act.gov.au. Retrieved 7 June 2022.
- ^ a b Law Officers Act 2011 (ACT) s 16.
- ^ "ACT appoints solicitor-general". ABC News. 23 August 2011. Retrieved 7 June 2022.