Two Judges Appointed

Justice Minister Michael Baker announced the appointment of M. Alanna Murphy and Carole A. Beaton as provincial court judges today, Dec. 13.

Ms. Murphy received her bachelor's degree from Dalhousie University and graduated in 1986 from Dalhousie Law School. She was called to the bar in 1987. She began her career with the Public Prosecution Service in 1987, serving in progressively more responsible roles before becoming chief crown attorney for the metro area in 2000.

Ms. Beaton received her bachelor's degree from St. Francis Xavier University and graduated from the University of New Brunswick with her law degree in 1987. She was called to the bar in 1988 and is a founding partner with the firm Beaton, Blaikie in Amherst. Ms. Beaton has been an active community member, serving as a director with the United Way of Cumberland County, the Amherst Township Historical Society and with Family and Children's Services of Cumberland County.

"These very capable women will serve the legal community and Nova Scotians well," said Mr. Baker. "We are delighted to be appointing these two highly qualified women to the bench."

The candidates are recommended by the Advisory Committee on Provincial Judicial Appointments. This committee consists of two members appointed by the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society, the chief judges of the provincial and family courts and four laypersons appointed by the justice minister. The committee reviews the applicants on a broad range of criteria, which includes an evaluation of the candidates' qualifications, intellectual and judgmental ability, professional excellence and community awareness and understanding.