Sir Alan James Mansfield, (30 September 1902 – 17 July 1980) was an Australian barrister, judge, and the 18th Governor of Queensland, serving from 1966 until 1972.

Early life

Mansfield was born on 20 September 1902 in Brisbane, Queensland, where his family had land in Gumdale. He lived in the Mount Gravatt area for many years. Sir James Mansfield was his great-great-grandfather. He was educated at the Anglican Church Grammar School in Brisbane, before winning a scholarship to the Sydney Church of England Grammar School (Shore). He attended university at St Paul's College, University of Sydney.

Judicial career

Mansfield was appointed as a Puisne Judge on the Supreme Court of Queensland on 17 May 1940. He served with distinction in that capacity until he was made a Senior Puisne Judge on 20 March 1947. As a Senior Puisne Judge, he served until 8 February 1956 when he was promoted to the position of Chief Justice of Queensland. He served as Chief Justice from 9 February 1956 until his retirement on 21 February 1966.

Vice-regal career

During his time as Chief Judge, Mansfield was Lieutenant-Governor of Queensland on several occasions. He was appointed Governor of Queensland in 1966. He served in this position until 1972. Mansfield was a freemason. During his term as governor, he was also Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Queensland.

Other professional achievements

When Mansfield first became a lawyer, he went to represent Australia on the International Military Tribunal for the Far East for the United Nations War Crimes Commission. In 1966, in addition to his other duties, Mansfield was also appointed Chancellor of the University of Queensland.

Honours