John Salmond (judge) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir John Salmond
KC
|
|
---|---|
![]() |
|
Born | North Shields, Northumberland, England
|
3 December 1862
Died | 19 September 1924 Wellington, New Zealand
|
(aged 61)
Spouse(s) |
Anne Bryham Guthrie
(m. 1891) |
Children | 3 |
Relatives | William Salmond (father) Louis Salmond (brother) Kathleen Salmond (niece) Robin Allan (nephew) Jeremy Salmond (great-nephew) |
Sir John William Salmond (born December 3, 1862 – died September 19, 1924) was a very important lawyer, government worker, and judge in New Zealand. He helped shape the country's laws and legal system during his lifetime.
Contents
Life and Career
Early Life and Education
John Salmond was born in North Shields, England. His father, William Salmond, was a minister and professor. In 1876, when John was 14, his family moved to Dunedin, New Zealand.
He went to Otago Boys' High School and then studied at the University of Otago. He earned two degrees there: a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts. Later, he won a special scholarship. This allowed him to study law at University College, London, in England. He became a fellow there, which is a high academic honor.
Becoming a Lawyer and Professor
John Salmond returned to New Zealand in 1887. He became a barrister and solicitor, which means he could argue cases in court and give legal advice. He started his law practice in Temuka.
In 1897, he became a law professor at the University of Adelaide in Australia. He taught students all about the law. In 1906, he came back to New Zealand. He helped start the law school at Victoria University of Wellington in Wellington. He was the first professor of law there.
Working for the Government
In 1907, John Salmond started working for the government. He was appointed as Counsel to the Law Drafting Office. This meant he helped write new laws for New Zealand. He did this for four years.
In 1911, he became the Solicitor-General. This is a very important job. It means he was the government's main lawyer. In 1912, he received a special title called King's Counsel. This title is given to top lawyers.
Judge and International Role
In 1918, John Salmond was knighted. This means he was given the title "Sir" for his important work. In 1920, he became a judge of the Supreme Court of New Zealand. This is one of the highest courts in the country.
Sir John also represented New Zealand at a big international meeting. It was called the Washington Naval Conference. This meeting, held from 1921 to 1922, was about navies and ships around the world.
After returning to New Zealand, he continued his work as a judge. He passed away in Wellington in 1924 after a heart attack. He was buried in Karori Cemetery.
Family Life
Sir John Salmond married Anne Bryham Guthrie in 1891. They had two sons and one daughter. Their eldest son, William Guthrie Salmond, sadly died in France during World War I in 1918.
Legacy
Sir John Salmond's work is still remembered today.
- The Law Library at the University of Adelaide Law School is named after him.
- A special room at the Victoria University of Wellington Law School is called the Salmond Room. It holds items related to his life and work.