Chief Justice

Judicial Service Commission The Judicial Service Commission of the Turks and Caicos Islands invites applications for the position of Chief Justice of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Pursuant to the Chief Justice (Responsibilities) Ordinance 2022 (as amended) the Chief Justice is the head of the Judiciary in the Turks and Caicos Islands and has responsibility for and management of all matters arising in the judicature. As such the Chief Justice serves as the chief administrative officer for the Courts. This role carries significant responsibility for both adjudication and the strategic leadership of the judicial system. 

The Chief Justice will lead a judiciary that is modern, efficient and accessible, ensuring justice is delivered fairly, promptly and transparently. The role demands a forward-thinking leader committed to judicial reform, digital transformation and strengthening public confidence in the rule of law. The successful candidate will champion innovation, uphold integrity and foster collaboration to create a judicial system that is truly fit for purpose in the 21st century. 

1. Core Judicial Duties 

? Preside over criminal, civil and family cases at trial, ensuring the highest standards of judicial decision-making. 

? Hear appeals from the Magistrate’s Courts, providing authoritative interpretation and guidance on points of law 

? Determine complaints of professional misconduct against members of the Bar, safeguarding the integrity of the legal        profession 

? Issue Rules and Practice Directions and ensure consistency, efficiency and fairness in judicial processes.

? Provide oversight of the management of Court Offices and staff.

? Prepare and monitor the annual Budget for Court services, ensuring fiscal responsibility.

? Advise the Governor in Cabinet on matters relating to the judicature. 

? Lead and support reforms aimed at improving the efficiency, effectiveness, and accessibility of the judicial system.

 ? Drive modernization initiatives to ensure the Courts are fit for purpose, leveraging technology and best practices to enhance service delivery. 

? Lead the development and implementation of judicial reforms and modernization initiatives to enhance the effective administration of justice. 

? Judicial Reform and Efficiency: Champion reforms that streamline case management, reduce delays and improve overall efficiency in the administration of justice, including modernisation and digital transformation.

 ? Access to Justice: Promote initiatives that ensure equitable access to justice for all, including vulnerable, marginalized and remote communities.

 ? Capacity Building: Strengthen judicial and administrative capacity through training, professional development and succession planning.

 ? Public Confidence and Integrity: Uphold the highest standards of judicial conduct and ethics, fostering trust and confidence in the judiciary

 ? Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: Engage appropriately with government, legal professionals and community stakeholders and leading regional and international agencies to advance a modern, responsive judicial system. 

The post holder must be:

 a) An Attorney at Law admitted to the Bar of any Caribbean country or territory eligible for admittance to the Bar of the Turks and Caicos Islands, a barrister or solicitor of the United Kingdom, of any other part of the Commonwealth, or of Ireland; 

b) a member of the Faculty of Advocates or a Writer to the Signet of Scotland; or

c) an attorney of the Supreme Court admitted under the Legal Profession Act or under any law for the time being in force in the Islands making like provision, and of at least ten years’ standing as such.

 ? Preference will be given to persons who have held high judicial office for 7 years or more in aggregate (Supreme Court or Court of Appeal)

 ? Demonstrated experience in judicial and court administration, including involvement in decision-making and leadership of court operations, implementing reforms or modernisation projects. 

? Sound and thorough knowledge of the areas of law relevant to the post.

? Exceptional professional skills, intellectual and analytical ability.

? Proven ability to command respect within the legal profession and the wider community.

? Strong leadership, communication and listening skills, with a commitment to transparency and accountability. 

? A person of sound moral character and integrity, maintaining public confidence in the judiciary.

? Good health and capacity to meet the demands of the office. 

 ? Basic Salary: $202,353.96 per annum (Income Tax Free) plus Housing, Transport and Telephone Allowance. 

For persons recruited outside of the Turks & Caicos Islands a three-year contract term extendable for a further final three-year term by mutual agreement. Other benefits in addition to basic salary include an end-of contract gratuity of 6%, return passages for a family of up to two children under the age of 18 years, freight cost and duty exemption on personal effects imported within six months of the appointment. 

A completed application form and resume with current contact information accompanied by a Cover Letter and two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer) as well as copies of educational certificates and a copy of the Passport photo page along with National Turks & Caicos Islander Status Card (where applicable). Shortlisted candidates must submit a Police Certificate. 

Applications should be submitted by email to the Judicial Service Commission at jsc @ gov.tc with the subject line Chief Justice Application.

To receive an application form please email your request to jsc @ gov.tc. 

If sent by courier, envelopes should be clearly marked Chief Justice Application on the front and addressed to:

                                                  The Judicial Service Commission                                                                                                                                                           Emily House                                                                                                                                                          1105 Leeward Highway, Providenciales.                                                                       

                                                         Turks and Caicos Islands 

PLEASE NOTE THAT ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED FOR INTERVIEWS