Last week NSW Attorney-General Greg Smith appointed Lloyd Babb SC as the state's next DPP. Babb, the current Crown Advocate, was a former colleague of Smith before the right-wing Liberal Party powerbroker stepped down as the deputy DPP and entered politics in 2007.

"Mr Babb has proven himself to be a lawyer of the highest quality who is well versed with all aspects of criminal law," said Smith. "I can also vouch for him personally, having worked with him when he was a solicitor, a crown prosecutor and in subsequent roles."

Before commencing his current role as a Crown Advocate, Babb was the head of the Criminal Law Division of the Department of Attorney General and Justice.

He will begin his 10-year appointment on 18 July, replacing acting DPP Ian Temby QC, after the former DPP Nicholas Cowdery QC retired in March after 17 years in the role.

Cowdery was known for his often strident criticisms of the previous Labor administration and it was widely known that he and former NSW Attorney-General, John Hatzistergos, enjoyed a frosty relationship. In particular, Cowdery took the Government to task on what he saw as "shock jocks" influencing policies on law and order, and was also a supporter of the legalisation of drugs.

In choosing Babb, Smith consulted with a selection committee that included the former DPP and current chief judge of the District Court, Justice Reg Blanch, the Independent Commission Against Corruption Commissioner David Ipp, barrister Tim Game SC and Robyn Gray, the owner of Herne Gray and Associates.