SA magistrate Jayne Basheer retires, top lawyer Aaron Almeida appointed to vacancy

One of Adelaide’s best-known magistrates has resigned – with the vacancy filled by a top criminal lawyer. Meanwhile, there are changes at Legal Aid in SA.

A long-serving magistrate has resigned, with one of Adelaide’s top criminal lawyers appointed to fill the vacancy.

Magistrate Jayne Basheer – who was appointed in 2015 – has left the bench, Attorney-General Kyam Maher said on Monday.

Aaron Almeida, an Adelaide criminal defence lawyer with more than 20 years’ experience, has been appointed to the Magistrates Court to take up the empty spot

Mr Almeida is set to begin work with the court from next Monday.

Over the past 22 years, Mr Almeida has practised in criminal law – most recently as principal of his own firm, Almeida and Associates.

New South Australian magistrate Aaron Almeida. Picture: Supplied

He has also worked as lead advocacy instructor with the College of Law in Adelaide.

Mr Maher said Mr Almeida had extensive experience in criminal defence law.

“He is highly regarded by his peers in South Australia and has been named as one of Adelaide’s leading criminal lawyers for four consecutive years in the prestigious publication Doyle’s Guide,” Mr Maher said.

“I congratulate him on his appointment and look forward to his contribution to the courts for years to come.”

Doyle’s Guide said Mr Almeida had been involved in many highly-publicised criminal matters and was “a very well respected member of the legal profession”.

“This has been recognised by the 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 Doyles Guide, where Aaron has been named as one of Adelaide’s leading criminal lawyers,” its website says.

“His experience, legal knowledge, manner, dedication and professionalism ensure his clients are provided with outstanding representation without exception.”

Magistrate Jayne Basheer in 2017.

Meanwhile, an experienced lawyer who has held leadership roles with Legal Aid in the Northern Territory and NSW has been appointed as Director of the Legal Services Commission in SA.

Annmarie Lumsden has worked in the legal profession for more than 30 years, including time with the ACT Attorney-General’s Department, a tenure as Deputy Chief Executive and, subsequently, Director of Criminal Law with Legal Aid NSW – and most recently as CEO of Legal Aid NT.

Ms Lumsden will start work in SA in September, ensuring a brief handover period with outgoing director Gabrielle Canny.

The Legal Services Commission of South Australia is SA’s largest legal assistance service, offering services including legal advice, education, dispute resolution and legal representation in the areas of family law, criminal law and civil law.

Legal Services Commission of SA chair Peter Slattery said Ms Lumsden was excited to take up the role.

“Under Gabrielle’s stewardship, the legal services team has established a reputation for innovation and thoughtful management in the delivery of high-quality legal services,” Mr Slattery said.