Published: 02 July 2018
Author: Ryan Carlisle Thomas

Senior partner Simon Guthrie appointed magistrate

Simon Guthrie, a senior partner with Ryan Carlisle Thomas, has been elevated to the Magistrate’s Court of Victoria by the Victorian government. 

The appointment is one of three new appointments just announced by the Victorian Government.

Simon has been with the firm since 1984, specialising in civil litigation in the areas of workplace injury, transport injury, public liability, victims of crime and superannuation claims. He managed the firm’s Geelong and Melton offices.

Acting Attorney-General Marlene Kairouz congratulated the new appointees, noting that they bring decades of collective legal experience to their new roles.

Ron Pearce, Managing Partner of the firm, said he was proud of Simon’s appointment, commenting that Simon’s elevation as a magistrate was recognition of his outstanding abilities as a lawyer.

“We are all immensely proud of him. It is a just reward for a distinguished career in plaintiff law,” he said.

He said that Simon was not just a smart legal brain but someone who brought compassion to his practice.

“Simon would go the ends of the Earth for a client,” Ron said.

A sentiment reinforced by long-time colleague, Ross Inglis, who said that Simon’s ardour for the Carlton Football Club gave him an excellent appreciation of pain and suffering.

In congratulating Simon, Ross added that his predilection for yachting and bush walking would make an excellent “outdoors magistrate”.

Simon’s influence within Ryan Carlisle Thomas has been significant. He established the firm’s Geelong, Melton and Werribee offices, has mentored many young lawyers, and played a key role in steering the Ballarat practice.

“Simon contribution is warmly appreciated by all his colleagues and we wish him every success in his new career on the bench,” Ron said.