4 December 2024
The Law Society of Western Australia has condemned the most recent political commentary on a judicial decision and urged Members of Parliament to resist politicising the courts, ahead of the State election.
Its stance follows comments by the Premier of Western Australia, The Hon. Roger Cook MLA, who called this week for the State’s Chief Justice, the Hon. Peter Quinlan, to call in and make accountable a magistrate who had been the focus of media attention, over comments made during a case.
Law Society President Paula Wilkinson said ill-informed political commentary, based on piecemeal transcript excerpts, threatened the principles of the rule of law.
“Politicians should recognise and respect that the judiciary is an independent arm of government and resist cynical politicking for media point-scoring,” Ms Wilkinson said.
The Chief Justice issued a rare public statement on the matter, while Senior Barrister Tom Percy KC and the WA Bar Association publicly voiced their deep concerns over the interference.
The Law Society welcomes the Premier’s sudden decision to prioritise a Judicial Commission, for independent investigations of complaints against members of the judiciary.
The Law Society has long been advocating for a Judicial Commission as part of its call for a well-functioning legal system. It is included in its State Election Campaign 2025.
Media contact: dkennedy@lawsocietywa.asn.au
