Judges appointed to the Supreme Court of NSW

Wednesday, 19 November 2025

Distinguished barristers Edward Muston SC and James Emmett SC have been appointed judges of the Supreme Court of NSW.

Mr Muston has more than two decades’ experience as a barrister. His practice spans commercial and insurance matters as well as the law of obligations.

He has appeared for the state in matters of public law and regulatory prosecutions.

Throughout his career, Mr Muston has contributed widely to legal education and regulation through a range of teaching and advisory roles.

Mr Emmett practises across public and administrative law, commercial litigation, professional negligence and maritime law.

He is a member of the NSW Bar Council, Australian National Maritime Museum Council and a lecturer at the University of Sydney.

Mr Muston will be sworn in on December 2 and Mr Emmett on December 4.

Meanwhile, the Honourable Justice Natalie Adams will in February assume the roles of Judge of Appeal and Chief Judge of the Common Law Division.

She will succeed the Honourable Justice Ian Harrison who will become Acting Justice and Acting Judge of Appeal.

Justice Adams has served as a Judge of the Supreme Court of New South Wales since 2016.

Before joining the bench, worked for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Legal Aid Commission and Crown Solicitor’s Office.

Called to the Bar in 2001 and appointed a Crown Prosecutor the following year, she conducted jury trials across the state and served as NSW Crown Advocate from 2011.

Attorney General Michael Daley said:

“I congratulate these practitioners on their well-deserved appointments which will contribute the Supreme Court’s proud traditions of independence and excellence.

“Mr Muston, Mr Emmett and Justice Adams are highly regarded for their intellect and integrity, while Justice Adams has a record of outstanding service and leadership on the bench.

“I thank Justice Harrison for his 18 years of distinguished service, including the past two years as Chief Judge of the Common Law Division.”