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Sir Francis Forbes

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Description: Sir Francis Forbes (1784-1841) served as the first Chief Justice of New South Wales. Born in Bermuda, Forbes travelled to London to study law at the age of 19, and was called to the Bar in 1812. In 1822 following an inquiry into the colony’s judicial affairs, Forbes was appointed the first Chief Justice of New South Wales to oversee the reform of the legal system. He is responsible for assisting the drafting the New South Wales Act 1823 which, along with the Charter of Justice, formed the basis of the Supreme Court’s comprehensive jurisdiction in New South Wales. He was an ex officio member of the Executive Council and the Legislative Council, with considerable power conferred upon him as sole judge.

During his time as Chief Justice, Forbes championed the introduction of trial by jury in New South Wales, was a strong advocate for free education, and ultimately left an impressive legacy by establishing legal precedents that remain relevant today.

He retired as Chief Justice in 1837 following bouts of ill-health, spurred on by conflict with governor Sir Ralph Darling. In the same year he received a Knighthood for his “integrity and ability, legal knowledge and devotion to His Majesty’s service.”