Two new appointments to County Court of Victoria

Attorney-General Robert Clark today announced the appointments of Richard Maidment SC and Richard Smith SC to the County Court of Victoria.

In congratulating Mr Maidment and Mr Smith on their appointments to the bench, Mr Clark said both appointees would bring extensive legal experience to the County Court.

“Richard Maidment has worked as a barrister in Victoria for almost 30 years, across a range of courts and jurisdictions,” Mr Clark said.

“During his time at the Victorian Bar, Mr Maidment has earned a reputation as a leading criminal barrister, including as a prosecutor of complicated white collar crime, tax fraud and terrorism cases. He has also practised in a range of regulatory and administrative fields.”

Born in England, Mr Maidment spent 10 years practising as a barrister there, as well as serving as a police officer in London prior to joining the bar.

Richard Smith brings wide experience in common law and commercial litigation to the County Court, having worked as a barrister in Victoria for more than 26 years. He was appointed as a Senior Counsel in 2006.

“Mr Smith has practised extensively in the Federal, Supreme and County Courts, as well as appearing before the Racing Appeals Tribunal, Pharmacy and Medical Boards and other tribunals,” Mr Clark said.

Mr Smith has also acted as a mediator in County Court and Supreme Court matters.

“The skills and expertise Mr Maidment and Mr Smith have developed over the years will be valuable additions to the County Court,” Mr Clark said.