This week we welcome The Hon. John Coldrey AM KC to Lives in the Law. 

When reflecting on John’s work and contribution to the criminal bar in Victoria, the words legendary and iconic are entirely appropriate. Along with his decades defending in criminal cases, John was a founding member of the Criminal Bar Association and even wrote and performed songs and skits at Bar Review nights with his close friend and colleague, Frank Vincent.

Following in Frank’s footsteps, John was one of the first advocates to go to the Northern Territory to work at the Central Australian Aboriginal Legal Service - an experience that led to his role as Director of Legal Services at the Central Land Council, where he advocated for Indigenous land rights.

Not long after returning to the bar, he was appointed Victorian DPP - a surprising move for a man who had never prosecuted a single case. In 1991, John was appointed to the Supreme Court of Victoria. He also served as a member of the Adult Parole Board and as Chairperson of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine.

John has had an exceptional life in the law, and it was an honour to welcome him to the show.

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