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Former in-house counsel appointed to Victorian bench
A Victorian barrister, who has acted in a number of state coronial inquests during her two decades in practice, has been made a judge of the Victorian County Court.
Melissa Coade
Patricia Riddell was appointed to the Victorian County Court last week on 8 November. She previously had chambers in Owen Dixon Chambers West on Lonsdale Street.
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The new judge fills a vacancy created by the retirement of Carolyn Douglas after 20 years of service as a County Court judge.
Victorian Attorney-General Martin Pakula thanked Judge Douglas for her service, describing her replacement a judge who would make an excellent contribution.
“I thank Judge Douglas for her two decades of outstanding service as a County Court judge,” Mr Pakula said.
The AG said that in addition to representing many private clients in criminal, civil and other matters, Ms Riddell acted on behalf of the Secretary to the Department of Justice and Regulation in relation to Serious Sex Offender Supervision Orders.
“Ms Riddell’s experience in criminal law, occupational health and safety, professional negligence and disciplinary matters, and coronial inquests will make her a valuable addition to the County Court,” he added.
Judge Riddell was admitted as a solicitor in 1995 and joined the Victorian Bar one year later. She obtained bachelor of laws and bachelor of arts from Monash University.
With more than 20 years of legal experience, she has prosecuted on behalf of the RSPCA Victoria since 2008 until her appointment. During the course of her legal career she has also worked for 12 months as in-house counsel for a human rights organisation.
