AG Thanks Chief Justice Richard Ground
As Chief Justice Richard Ground is set to officially retire today [Mar.31], Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Kim Wilson commended Mr. Ground for his exemplary service and commitment to the Judiciary.
“One of the things I most admire about Justice Ground is his fierce protection of the Constitutional independence of the Judiciary which tempered by his willingness to collaborate with Ministry Headquarters on legislative initiatives to advance the administration of justice,” said Minister Wilson.
“Such initiatives include amendments to the Jurors Act 1971; and to Proceeds of Crime legislation to widen the scope of production orders and search warrants and provide for more comprehensive criminalization of criminal proceeds.
“Important revisions were made to the Indictable Offences Amendment Act 2005. That same year witnessed passage of the Criminal Law (Abolition of Distinction between Felony and Misdemeanor) Act 2005, with judicial guidance.
“As recently as 2010, the Court Of Appeal Amendment Act 2010 was enacted in collaboration with the judiciary to place necessary limits on the timeless rule against double jeopardy in circumstances where new and compelling evidence comes to light after acquittal, discharge or lesser offence conviction, for certain murder related offences.”
Minister Wilson continued: “We can count among Justice Ground’s notable contributions his success at presiding over the judicial contribution of clearing the backlog of criminal cases in the Supreme Court, per the most recent account by the Registrar of the Supreme Court.
“This is a challenge faced in many jurisdictions with ours being no exception except that we have had the honor of committed judicial leadership that has enabled us to succeed where others have failed.
“Justice Ground’s clear grasp of legal principles reflects his admirable intellect and has enabled him to effect a successful transition into the very complex realm of the commercial court.
“Like my colleagues at the Bar, I will remember him for his fair but firm conduct of judicial matters and his dedication to ensuring that the operations of the Supreme Court and the Magistrates Court reflect best practice and a level of efficiency of which the people of Bermuda can be proud.
“On behalf of the Government of Bermuda, I would like to wish Justice Ground all the best as he enters the next phase of his life and all of its intended pleasures. Thank you for a job well done and you will be deeply missed.”
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