Attorney General John Quigley is pleased to announce the appointment of two magistrates.
Ms Sarah Dewsbury and Ms Wendy Hughes have been appointed as magistrates and will preside in the Children’s Court of Western Australia.
One of the appointments will fill a vacancy left by the retirement of Magistrate Tim Schwass. The other is initially for a two-year appointment to the Children’s Court, and will enable another magistrate from within the Court to be selected to head the new Protection and Care pilot project.
As stated by Attorney General John Quigley:
“Ms Dewsbury was admitted to practice in Western Australia in February 1987.
“She has worked at Legal Aid WA for many years, most recently in the Youth Law Team, Criminal Law Division.
“Her career has focused on the advocacy of, and justice for, young people in the justice system.
“Ms Dewsbury will take her very considerable experience to the role. Her appointment to the Children’s Court will initially be for two years, permitting the Court to take advantage of the initial two-year funding for the pilot project.
“Ms Hughes was admitted to practice in March 2007.
“She has worked at the Aboriginal Legal Service of Western Australia for a number of years, gaining experience in all jurisdictions.
“As a sole practitioner she has been a sessional Arbitrator at WorkCover WA, where she is currently determining disputes listed for arbitration as well as being a Commissioner for the Liquor Commission.
“Ms Hughes has significant experience in a broad range of jurisdictions and in criminal law in particular. She will be appointed to the Children’s Court on a permanent basis.
“Ms Dewsbury and Ms Hughes will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Children’s Court. They will commence in their new roles from February 3, 2020.
“I congratulate them on their appointments and wish them all the best.”
