Justice Paul Garlick KC has been sworn in as a Supreme Court judge in Tonga.
The ceremony took place this morning in Cabinet, witnessed by Acting Prime Minister Dr Taniela Fusimalohi, cabinet ministers and Chief Justice Hon. Malcolm Bishop KC. Justice Garlick succeeds Justice Nicholas Cato, whose term recently ended.
Justice Garlick, a seasoned legal professional from the United Kingdom and Europe, brings extensive experience in criminal law and international jurisprudence. He was called to the Bar in 1974 and appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1996. His career includes serving as a Recorder of the Crown Court and working with international organisations such as the Council of Europe and the United Nations.
Dr Fusimalohi welcomed Justice Garlick stating: “We are confident that his vast experience and unwavering commitment to justice will greatly benefit Tonga’s legal system and uphold the rights of our people.”
Justice Garlick’s appointment is expected to strengthen Tonga’s judiciary, to address pending constitutional matters and high-profile cases and in areas involving complex criminal and international legal matters.
Judicial appointments in Tonga are made by the King, advised by the Judicial Appointment Panel.
