Charles Skerrett facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Charles Skerrett
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| 5th Chief Justice of New Zealand | |
| In office 1 February 1926 – 13 February 1929 |
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| Nominated by | Gordon Coates |
| Appointed by | Sir Charles Fergusson |
| Preceded by | Robert Stout |
| Succeeded by | Michael Myers |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 2 September 1863 India,  India |
| Died | 13 February 1929 (aged 65) at sea |
Sir Charles Perrin Skerrett (2 September 1863 – 13 February 1929) was a very important judge in New Zealand. He served as the fifth Chief Justice of New Zealand from 1926 to 1929. A Chief Justice is the highest judge in a country's court system, leading all other judges.
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Sir Charles Skerrett: A Top Judge in New Zealand
Sir Charles Skerrett played a key role in New Zealand's legal system. He was known for his sharp mind and dedication to justice. His journey from a young boy in India to the highest judicial office in New Zealand is quite remarkable.
Early Life and Moving to New Zealand
Charles Skerrett was born in India on 2 September 1863. His father, Peter Perrin Skerrett, was from Ireland. The Skerrett family was part of the "Tribes of Galway," which were important families in the city of Galway long ago.
Charles's father was a sergeant in the Army in India. At that time, officers in the army usually needed to have their own money, which his father did not have.
When Charles was 12 years old, his family moved to New Zealand. This was a big change for the young boy, moving from India to a new country.
Starting a Career in Law
After arriving in New Zealand, Charles went to school at Wellington College. This school helped him prepare for his future career.
He started working for the government in different departments. First, he worked at the Post Office, then the Treasury. Later, he moved to the Department of Justice, where he was a clerk in the Wellington Magistrates' Court. This experience gave him a good look at how the legal system worked.
Charles then decided to become a lawyer. He trained with a law firm called Buller, Lewis & Gully. In 1884, he passed his exams and was allowed to practice law. He worked for himself and also with well-known law firms in Wellington, such as Skerrett and Wyllie, and Chapman Tripp.
A Leader in New Zealand Law
In 1907, a special title was created for top lawyers in New Zealand called King's Counsel (KC). Charles Skerrett was one of the very first lawyers to receive this important title. Being a King's Counsel meant he was recognized as one of the best and most experienced lawyers in the country.
From 1918 to 1926, Charles Skerrett was the President of the New Zealand Law Society. This organization represents all the lawyers in New Zealand. As president, he helped guide the legal profession and make sure lawyers followed high standards.
Connecting with Sports: The Chatham Cup
Sir Charles Skerrett wasn't just involved in law; he also had a connection to sports! In 1922, he was the president of the New Zealand Football Association. This group looks after football (soccer) in New Zealand.
That year, Captain Prickett of a ship called HMS Chatham gave a special trophy to New Zealand. This trophy was called the Chatham Cup. It was a thank you gift to New Zealand for being so welcoming to the ship and its crew. As president, Charles Skerrett was the one who received this important cup. Today, the Chatham Cup is still a major football competition in New Zealand.
Becoming Chief Justice
On 1 February 1926, Charles Skerrett reached the highest point in his legal career. He was appointed the Chief Justice of New Zealand. This meant he was the head judge for the entire country.
The following year, in 1927, he was given a special honour by the King. He was made a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG). This title meant he was now called "Sir Charles Skerrett."
Later Life and Legacy
In 1929, Sir Charles Skerrett began a trip to London. Sadly, he passed away while at sea on the ship Port Denison on 13 February 1929. He was 65 years old. Sir Charles Skerrett was not married.
He is remembered as a dedicated and respected figure in New Zealand's legal history, who rose to the highest judicial position in the country.
