to open a temporary post of assistant justice.

Advertised last week in the official gazette, the $113,000 post is in accordance with the powers of the Governor to add a temporary judge to the bench if necessary.

Chief Justice Austin Ward said with two major civil cases pending this year, his department would need the extra hand, saying: "It has to do with our meeting our commitment with society in general.'' Deputy governor Tim Gurney echoed Mr. Ward and said: "There's the feeling of a need for an additional judge to keep the system running efficiently.'' Created under section 73(6) of the Constitution, the post is allowed for if the number of justices does not exceed the number set in law.

This spring there will be lengthy court battles in two civil trials expected to run up to six months, which will see the addition of new courtrooms to accommodate dozens of overseas lawyers expected.

It is expected the Thyssen-Bornemisza family case will run for six months beginning in April, while the Bermuda Fire and Marine action will take four months starting in May with 30 lawyers.

The new post is weighted toward lawyers with experience in commercial work in international trust, banking, insurance and reinsurance.

Other justices will have a busy year with two murder trials and one manslaughter trial already scheduled for this spring.