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As Chief Magistrate of NSW, Judge Michael Allen has clear insight into the operation of the justice system, especially in the NSW Local Court, the nation’s busiest.

He would be aware of the countless criminal and civil matters that come and go at city, metropolitan and regional courts every day, without attracting any public attention. 

And then there are the matters that do generate media interest. Members of the legal profession sometimes question the merits of which cases are covered and indeed how, but the concept of open justice remains a fundamental principle. 

So Judge Allen is well placed to take part a debate focused on the media and judiciary, at the Law Society of NSW Annual Conference’s opening day on 10 October. 

Joined by former Supreme Court Judge Anthony Whealy, and journalists and authors Kate Wild and Dan Box, the panel will tackle important questions about the sometimes-relentless curiosity of journalists and the impact of media investigations. 

Judge Allen is a former magistrate and Deputy Chief Magistrate and was a District Court Judge based in Penrith, before taking up his current role. 

Earlier in his career, he worked as a solicitor and then a barrister, which took him across the state. There were also roles in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and Legal Aid NSW. 

At his swearing in, Law Society President Brett McGrath remarked that his Honour had been “described by others on the Bench as an adroit, skilful teacher, with a great ability to engage people.” 

Others noted Judge Allen’s intellect, but also his ability to be thoughtful, considered and practical. 

His Honour’s knowledge of the Evidence Act and the law, as well as his understanding of the “politics of being human,” were further points made in McGrath’s speech. 

It is a perspective that goes right to the heart of how the justice system functions. As the media faces continuing structural headwinds and advances in technology shape virtually everyone’s lives, there is surely no better time to debate the operation of the courts and a free press, and their essential roles in our democratic society. 

Book your ticket to the 2024 Annual Conference here.