Palmer quits after denied solicitor-general job
Deputy Solicitor-General Matthew Palmer has quit after failing to get the top job in his office.
Dr Palmer circulated an email to staff at Crown Law Office yesterday saying he will be returning to legal practice.
"I have been considering this step for the last year but had been persuaded to stay on until the next solicitor-general was appointed .
"I did apply for that position but was advised this week that I have been unsuccessful."
Two other rumoured candidates are also out.
The man labelled "front runner", Auckland Crown Solicitor Simon Moore, did not apply for the job, and nor did one other top lawyer frequently named, Chapman Tripp chief executive Jack Hodder.
The final decision on who will be solicitor-general, the government's senior legal adviser, has yet to go to the cabinet but probably will do so next week.
There are reports an announcement by Attorney-General Chris Finlayson is "imminent".
The positions has been vacant since previous incumbent Dr David Collins was made a High Court judge earlier this year.
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Comments and questions1
Positions like this rarely go to 'the next on the list' in terms of existing rank. Palmer would be better getting out and increasing the depth and breadth of his practice before applying for the role next time around. Being a hereditary member of the public law royalty is not enough.