Barrister appointed Judge of the District Court

• Mark Ritter SC appointed as a Judge of the District Court of Western Australia     
• Long-time Barrister has practised in industrial and employment law and criminal law
  

Attorney General John Quigley has announced the appointment of Mark Ritter SC as a Judge of the District Court of Western Australia.

Mr Ritter, a Barrister for much of his legal career, has practised in multiple areas including industrial and employment law, criminal law and native title.

After being admitted to practice in WA in December 1985, he became a Partner and Director at two different law firms and was appointed a Senior Counsel in 2004.

Mr Ritter later served as Acting President of the WA Industrial Relations Commission prior to his most recent position as a Barrister at Francis Burt Chambers.

In 2017 and 2018 he conducted a Ministerial review of the State's industrial relations system.

During his career, Mr Ritter also periodically tutored and lectured for the Legal Practice Board and at the University of Western Australia in ethics and criminal law, respectively.

Mr Ritter's new roles take effect from 1 February 2023.

Comments attributed to Attorney General John Quigley:

"Mr Ritter SC is regarded highly by the legal profession, and I congratulate him on his appointment as a Judge of the District Court.

"His extensive experience as a Barrister on Federal Court, Fair Work Commission and WA Industrial Relations Commission matters makes him eminently equipped to preside over the District Court's heavy caseload.

"In the area of criminal law, Mr Ritter has acted as both defence and prosecution counsel in complex trials.

"He has also made significant contributions to education and mentoring in the legal field."

Minister's office - 6552 6800