Attorney General

The Attorney General’s Chambers invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for the position of ATTORNEY GENERAL.

ATTORNEY GENERAL - ANGUILLA

Job Summary

The Government of Anguilla is seeking an exceptional lawyer and leader to serve as Attorney General and head the Attorney General’s Chambers in Anguilla during a period of modernization and growth.

Background

Anguilla is a small British Overseas Territory located in the Caribbean, with a population of approximately 12,000. Renowned for its 33 pristine beaches, turquoise seas, and abundant wildlife, Anguilla’s economy is largely driven by tourism. Its legal system is rooted in the English common law tradition, with legislation passed by the Anguillan House of Assembly in accordance with the Constitution. The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council serves as the final court of appeal, while the High Court of Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court acts as the superior court of first instance.

Job Description – The Role

Under Anguilla’s Constitution, the Attorney General is appointed by the Governor and serves as the principal legal advisor to the Governor and the Government. As a member of the Executive Council (Cabinet) and the Legislative Assembly, the Attorney General adheres to the principle of collective cabinet responsibility.

The Attorney Generals chambers drafts legislation and contracts, provides advice to Ministers and Government Departments and represents the Government in civil litigation.

Oversight of prosecutions currently resides with the Attorney General as Anguilla’s Constitution does not currently provide for a Director of Public Prosecutions. However, pending constitutional change a new Attorney General, working with the Principal Crown Counsel Criminal, will be asked to introduce as much functional independence for the Prosecution Team as possible under the Constitution.

This is a pivotal time to assume the role of Attorney General in Anguilla. The Chambers has been under resourced for a number of years and a longstanding public sector pay freeze has made it hard to recruit lawyers. The Government of Anguilla is currently undertaking a public sector reform program which is expected to see significant increases in public sector pay and improved performance management, training and development opportunities for staff. The Governor is keen to recruit an Attorney General committed to embracing and leading change, building a fully resourced, effective and happy Attorney General’s chambers.

Responsibilities

• Provide risk based constitutional and public law advice to the Governor and Government on a full range of policies and initiatives, ensuring adherence to the rule of law, the constitutional framework, and the UK’s international obligations.
• Deliver operational advice to government officials, including law enforcement agencies (Police, Prison, Immigration, and Customs).
• Offer contractual and employment advice, including procurement, negotiation of major contracts, and public service employment issues.
• Oversee the drafting of legislation to ensure timely, legally sound, and constitutionally compliant bills are submitted to the Assembly.
• Oversee the conduct of civil litigation involving the Government.
• Oversee the conduct criminal proceedings in line with the constitution and support a Principal Crown Counsel Criminal in the creation of a functionally independent prosecution unit so far as constitutionally possible.
• Lead and manage the Attorney General’s Chambers, motivating and developing a small team of qualified lawyers and support staff.

Person Specification

Qualifications:

• Legally qualified as an attorney-at-law, solicitor, or barrister with at least 13 years’ call in a common law jurisdiction.
• A degree in law, Common Professional Examination, or Graduate Diploma in Law.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Deep understanding of constitutional principles, governmental legal frameworks, legislative drafting, and civil and criminal litigation.
• Leadership abilities to inspire and develop staff within the Attorney General’s Chambers and the broader legal community in Anguilla.
• Track record of successfully delivering organizational change.
• Proven capability to manage multiple competing priorities, delegate effectively, and ensure the quality and timeliness of work.
• Strong relationship-building skills to engage confidently with senior stakeholders and deliver candid advice when necessary.
• Cultural, social, and political awareness of the Caribbean region. Experience working in the region is a distinct advantage but not essential.
• A solution-focused mindset with a track record of resolving complex legal challenges innovatively.
• Commitment to the highest ethical standards as outlined in the Nolan principles and the ability to uphold these standards within the Chambers.

Terms and Conditions

• Initial period of appointment 3 years with the potential to extend if all parties are content.
• Remuneration: Base salary of up to EC$322,800 (US$120,000) based on qualifications and experience and a time limited allowance of EC$80,700 (US $30,000) per annum for the first three years.
• Relocation Grant: If applicable, relocation assistance and economy air travel for the successful applicant and dependent family members at the beginning and end of the contract.
• Housing Allowance: Payable to eligible applicants.
• Subsidies: A car and mobile phone allowance.
• Contract: Fixed term of three years, with the possibility of extension.

Next Steps

Interested applicants are invited to contact Hon. Perin A. Bradley directly via email at perin.bradley gov.ai to express their interest in the position. The deadline for applications is 4:00 PM on Friday 25^th July 2025.

The expected start date for the position is September 2025.

Applicants should provide the following supporting documents:

1. Certified copies of qualification documents.
2. A statement of suitability for the role addressing the requirements in the Person Specification around qualifications and skills.
3. Three testimonials highlighting suitability for the role, covering past and present employment.
4.  A valid police record.

These documents should also be copied to Mr. Larry Franklin at larry.franklin gov.ai and Mr. Orlando Lewis-Ames at orlando.ames-lewis fcdo.gov.uk.

Applicants will be required to deliver a pre-prepared presentation during the interview and complete an in-box exercise before the interview.

For further details or clarification, please contact Hon. Perin A. Bradley at the email provided above.

These documents should also be copied to Mr. Larry Franklin at larry.franklin gov.ai and Mr. Orlando Lewis-Ames at orlando.ames-lewis fcdo.gov.uk.

For further details or clarification, please contact Hon. Perin A. Bradley at the email provided above.