Two veteran barristers have been named deputy chief judges as the state’s busiest trial court addresses an increasingly challenging workload.
Judges Stephen Hanley SC and Christopher O’Brien AM have been appointed deputy chief judges of the District Court of NSW, effective 15 December.
The NSW District Court stated that the new Office of the Deputy Chief Judge has been established to support the management of Australia’s busiest trial court as its workload continues to grow and demands careful oversight.
In their new roles, the pair will work alongside Chief Judge Sarah Huggett to oversee court operations, including arranging sittings, monitoring performance, and advising more than 80 judges.
Appointed to the District Court in 2013, Judge Hanley brings decades of legal experience, having been admitted as a solicitor in 1977, called to the Bar in 1986, and appointed senior counsel in 2010.
He has also been actively involved with professional bodies, including the NSW Bar Association, the board of the Legal Aid Commission, and the Criminal Defence Lawyers Association.
Judge O’Brien’s judicial career began with his appointment to the Local Court in 2007, followed by a role as deputy chief magistrate in 2014.
He was later appointed to the District Court in 2018 and was made a member of the Order of Australia in 2019 for his service to the law and judiciary.
O’Brien will serve as Deputy Chief Judge for a five-year term, while Judge Hanley’s term will conclude upon his retirement in June 2027.
Attorney-General Michael Daley praised the appointments, emphasising the judges’ experience and legal expertise and their role in strengthening the District Court’s operational efficiency.
“I congratulate Judges Hanley and O’Brien on their appointments,” Daley said.
“Both judges have an extraordinary depth of legal knowledge, demonstrated ability to enhance the operational efficiency of the District Court and outstanding records of service to the profession.
“The addition of two deputy chief judges will strengthen the capacity of the District Court to manage its growing workload.”
