Respected lawyer and Solicitor-General Dr Chris Bleby SC will be the second appointment to the State Government’s new, dedicated Court of Appeal, Attorney-General, Vickie Chapman announced today.
Attorney-General Chapman said Dr Bleby has a distinguished career dating back more than 20 years, and would make an excellent contribution to the new Court.
“For nearly four years, Dr Bleby has been South Australia’s Solicitor-General, and has previously worked in the private sector, the Crown Solicitor’s Office, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions,” Ms Chapman said.
“I’m confident he will serve the new Court with distinction.”
Attorney-General Chapman said Dr Bleby would begin work at the Supreme Court on 4 May, and would transfer over to the new Court when it commenced operations early next year.
“This appointment will help alleviate existing workloads within the Supreme Court while also ensuring the Court has flexibility to continue hearing matters,” Ms Chapman said.
“Mike Wait SC, the current Crown Solicitor will take over the position of Solicitor-General. His appointment will take effect on 3 August 2020.
“Since he was appointed Crown Solicitor and Crown Advocate, Mike Wait has provided advice on many detailed, complex matters affecting numerous government agencies. Mr Wait has also represented the State in appellate jurisdictions including the High Court,” Ms Chapman said.
“He is exceptionally qualified and I look forward to his continued role within Government.”
Ms Chapman said a process to appoint a new Crown Solicitor would commence shortly.
