New president of the Law Commission

Justice Grant Hammond. File photo / Mark Mitchell

Justice Grant Hammond will replace Sir Geoffrey Palmer as head of the Law Commission.

Sir Geoffrey did not put his hand up for another five year term.

Justice Hammond has served on the Court of Appeal since 2004, after 12 years with the High Court.

Minister responsible for the Law Commission Simon Power was pleased such a distinguished judge and lawyer was set to lead the commission.

"Justice Hammond's experience will stand the commission in good stead as it refocuses its priorities on black letter law," Mr Power said.

Sir Geoffrey, a former Labour prime minister, made a significant contribution to the commission through his leadership and wealth of knowledge and experience, Mr Power said.

Earlier this year, it was announced that he would lead a UN investigation into the attack on Gaza-bound aid flotilla in May.

Victoria University law professor Geoffrey McLay was also announced as a new member of the commission, for a five year term.

His specialist areas include torts, intellectual property, anti-trust law and ethics.

The commission is an independent Crown entity established to undertake the systematic review, reform and development of the law.

Both appointees will start on December 1.

- NZPA