Second Law Officer of Australian Capital Territory
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]
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
The 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)
Name
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Appointed
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Concluded
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Comments
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Notes
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Peter Garrison AM SC
|
August 2011
|
Incumbent
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Formerly Deputy Chief Solicitor
|
[1]
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References