Three new magistrates appointed

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath has appointed three new magistrates to help deliver justice across Queensland.

Mrs D’Ath said widely-respected lawyers Melanie Ho, Nerida Wilson and Peter Delibaltas were sworn in as magistrates of the Queensland Magistrates Court in Brisbane today.

“All three bring with them broad skills in the legal profession over long-standing careers that are dynamic and varied, and embody all the desirable qualities one would expect from a judicial officer,” she said.

“Fairness, a tireless work ethic and strong experience in the law makes each of these individuals more than qualified for their new roles.”

Mrs D’Ath said the trio would undertake positions throughout Queensland, including in regional areas as part of their service rotation.

“Ms Ho is a senior prosecutor with the office of the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions, with a legal career spanning more than two decades,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“Ms Wilson has practised at the private bar in Cairns since 2008, having previously worked as a solicitor in private practice and as an officer of the Australian Federal Police.

“Mr Delibaltas has been the Director of Criminal Law Services at Legal Aid Queensland since 2010, having commenced work at the Public Defender’s Office in 1990.

“I know all three will be an excellent addition to the magistracy and will contribute in meaningful and significant ways to the important work that court does across the state.”