Thomas à Beckett (judge) facts for kids
Sir Thomas à Beckett (born August 31, 1836 – died June 21, 1919) was an important Australian solicitor and judge. He helped shape the law in Victoria, Australia, for many years. He was known for his fairness and his deep understanding of legal matters.
Early Life and Family
Thomas à Beckett was born in London, England. He was the oldest son of Thomas Turner à Beckett. In January 1851, when Thomas was about 14, he moved to Australia with his father. They arrived in Melbourne on a ship called the Andromache.
Thomas went to a private school in Melbourne. Later, in 1856, he went back to England to study law. He became a student at Lincoln's Inn, which is a famous place where lawyers are trained. He finished his studies and became a lawyer on November 17, 1857. This is called being "called to the bar."
He returned to Victoria, Australia, in 1860. There, he was allowed to practice law. He worked as a lawyer for the Supreme Court of Victoria in Melbourne.
In 1875, Thomas à Beckett married Isabella Michie. She was the daughter of Sir Archibald Michie. They had two sons and three daughters. Thomas's younger brother, Edward à Beckett, was a portrait painter. Some of his paintings can be seen at the Supreme Court in Melbourne.
In 1909, Thomas à Beckett was given the title of Knight Bachelor. This means he was knighted by the King or Queen for his important work.
In 1916, a portrait of Sir Thomas à Beckett was given to the Supreme Court library. This showed how much people respected and liked him.
Sir Thomas à Beckett passed away in Melbourne on June 21, 1919.
Professional Career
Thomas à Beckett became a lawyer in 1859 while he was still in England. When he came back to Melbourne in 1860, he started his own law practice. He focused on a special area of law called "equity."
From 1874, he also taught law at the University of Melbourne for several years. He was considered a top expert in equity law. In September 1886, he was chosen to become a judge of the Supreme Court.
Sir Thomas à Beckett served as a judge on the Supreme Court of Victoria for many years. He started on September 30, 1886, and retired on July 31, 1917. He was a judge for over 30 years.
See also
- Judiciary of Australia
- List of Judges of the Supreme Court of Victoria
- Victorian Bar Association
