The Honourable Robert D. Punnett and the Honourable Peter M. Willcock have been appointed to the Supreme Court of British Columbia.

Mr. Justice Punnett served as a Bencher for Prince Rupert County until his appointment on June 19. He also served two terms on the Canadian Bar Association (BC Branch) Provincial Council and on the board of directors for the Trial Lawyers Association of BC. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel earlier this year. He was a partner in Punnett & Johnston of Prince Rupert until his appointment.

First elected a Bencher in 2006, Justice Punnett served on several Law Society committees and task forces during his time as a Bencher. Law Society President Gordon Turriff, QC congratulated Mr. Justice Punnett on his appointment. “This is great news for the people of BC,” said Turriff. “Mr. Justice Punnett has all the qualities communities want a judge to have — he’s thoughtful, a good listener and measured in his responses.”

Mr. Justice Punnett replaces Mr. Justice D.A. Halfyard in Prince Rupert.

Mr. Justice Willcock practised with Harper Grey LLP from 1983 until his appointment. He was a member of the insurance, health and professional regulation practice groups, having chaired the insurance group for several years. Mr. Willcock contributed to a number of professional education courses and publications. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Continuing Legal Education Society for many years.

Mr. Justice Willcock replaces Mr. Justice L. Paul Williamson in Vancouver who elected to become supernumerary judge as of January 28, 2009.