The ACT Supreme Court has welcomed a new judge this morning with the swearing in of Justice John Burns.
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A ceremonial sitting marked the new justice's rapid rise through judicial ranks just 18 months after being appointed head of the Magistrates Court.
His predecessor Justice Malcolm Gray, who retired on Friday, was a guest at today's sitting.
Attorney-General Simon Corbell praised Justice Burns for his leadership in the Magistrates Court and said his work in case management had improved the lower court's efficiency.
He said Justice Burns would bring significant legal experience to the Supreme Court.
The new judge has been a magistrate since 1990 and previously worked as a solicitor and barrister.
Justice Burns spoke of his parents, whose sacrifices had given him opportunities for education and a legal career, and paid tribute to his wife, senior Commonwealth lawyer Cherie Burns.
He expressed gratitude to Mr Corbell and the head of the Justice and Community Safety directorate Kathy Leigh.
Justice Burns also read out a congratulatory note from criminal barrister Jack Pappas, who caviled about forking out for "expensive and fanciful" greeting cards to keep up with the new judge's string of promotions.
"Who knows when you might catch the eye of the Federal Court or move to The Hague?" Mr Pappas wrote.
"Can I suggest you return to me my last card and I will simply re-endorse it with my best wishes."
