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🇦🇺 Australia /Crime & Justice

Victorian judge to get counseling after 'inappropriate' comments

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • A Victorian judge will undergo counseling and training after the Judicial Commission of Victoria found his comments about a barrister were unfair and inappropriate.
  • The commission dismissed claims of judicial bullying but substantiated part of a complaint regarding critical comments made by Judge Michael Tinney on two occasions.
  • The judge denied wrongdoing, and the substantiated complaint has been referred to the County Court's Chief Judge.

A Victorian judge, Michael Tinney, will receive counseling and training after the Judicial Commission of Victoria substantiated part of a complaint against him. The commission found that on two occasions, Judge Tinney made unfair and inappropriate comments about a barrister's professional integrity and competence.

unfair and inappropriate

— Judicial Commission of Victoriadescribing the judge's comments

The barrister, an experienced senior member of the profession, had alleged judicial bullying. However, the commission dismissed this claim, stating the conduct did not amount to bullying but was inconsistent with the expected standards of judicial officers. The commission noted that while isolated incidents might be seen as frustration, the cumulative effect was disrespectful and diminished the barrister's professional standing.

did not amount to judicial bullying

— Judicial Commission of Victoriaregarding the barrister's allegation

Judge Tinney denied all allegations. The substantiated part of the complaint has been referred to Chief Judge Amanda Chambers of the County Court. The barrister's complaint stemmed from alleged conduct during three sex offense trials dating back to 2022 and 2023.

inconsistent with the respect, courtesy, patience and tolerance

— Judicial Commission of Victoriadescribing the judge's conduct
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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