Associate Professor Anthony Hopkins, Director of Clinical and Internship Courses at the Australian National University (ANU) Law School, has been appointed as a Special Magistrate of the ACT Magistrates Court.

A legal practitioner, educator and researcher, Dr Hopkins is a leading authority on therapeutic jurisprudence in Australia and has deep expertise in criminal law.

“I am honoured by the appointment,” Dr Hopkins said. “I am particularly delighted to have the opportunity to work with Elders on the Galambany Court in collaboration with the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.”

Established in 2004, the Galambany Court is a specialised 'circle-sentencing' court that aims to provide effective and restorative processes to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander defendants through community involvement in sentencing. Sentencing matters are heard by a Special Magistrate, alongside a panel of respected Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders.

Dr Hopkins' career as both a legal practitioner and scholar have been shaped by an enduring commitment to tackling inequality in the criminal justice system. He began his legal practice in 2002 with the Northern Territory Legal Aid Commission, before moving to work with the Central Australian Aboriginal Legal Service in Alice Springs. Dr Hopkins joined the ANU Law School in 2015 and has practised as a barrister at Burley Griffin Chambers in the ACT since 2010.

“I welcome Dr Hopkins to this important role,” Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury said.

“His background and experience in therapeutic jurisprudence mean that he is well equipped to contribute to the work of the Magistrates Court including its circle sentencing court, the Galambany Court.”

Dr Hopkins’ appointment will begin 1 May 2021 and continue until 30 June 2022.