Justice Robert Pearce will step down from the Supreme Court of Tasmania in May next year, ending nearly 14 years on the bench.
Attorney-General Guy Barnett announced the resignation this morning. Pearce’s departure takes effect on May 7, 2027, with his final sitting day in December 2026.
Pearce was appointed to the Supreme Court on June 11, 2013, becoming the court’s 39th puisne judge. He replaced Peter Evans.
“The Tasmanian government thanks Justice Pearce for his service and unwavering commitment to the rule of law,” Barnett said.
“Justice Pearce has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary and service to the Tasmanian community throughout his time at the Supreme Court.”
Chief Justice Christopher Shanahan paid tribute to Pearce in a statement issued by the court.
“He will be sorely missed,” the chief justice said, adding his “service to the people of Tasmania has been exemplary”.
Shanahan said the people of Tasmania had “reason to be grateful” for Pearce’s contribution to the state’s jurisprudence.
“Institutions are only as strong as those that devote their lives and careers to serving the public,” he said.
“By his contribution Justice Pearce has made the Supreme Court of Tasmania a better institution and his public service falls to be celebrated.”
Pearce presided over several high-profile matters during his tenure on the bench.
Before his Supreme Court appointment, he served as a Launceston magistrate from 2009.
He practised for decades at Launceston firm Douglas and Collins prior to joining the magistracy.
Pearce also chaired the Tasmanian Racing Appeals Tribunal from 1994 to 2009.
Shanahan extended the court’s best wishes to Pearce and his wife Catherine for retirement.
Barnett said the government would begin a process “in due course” to fill the vacancy.
Pearce continues to sit until his retirement date.
