Deputy High Bailiff, Isle of Man

The Isle of Man prides itself on its values of democracy, good governance and the importance of the rule of law. The judiciary is a key component of delivering these values and to the Island’s international reputation.

The role of the full-time judiciary in the Island has developed over centuries and it continues to evolve in its complexity, importance and the need to align itself with the expansion and diversity of legal services provided in the Island.

Applications are invited from on- and off-Island candidates for the position of Deputy High Bailiff. This is an appointment made by His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor pursuant to s1(2) of the Summary Jurisdiction Act 1989.

The postholder will act as one of the deputies to the High Bailiff and assist the High Bailiff in carrying out his functions across the Summary Courts. The postholder will be also required to assist the Deemsters with the workload of the High Court, including, but not restricted to, small claims arbitration. This is a full-time judicial post with an interesting and challenging variety of judicial work within the civil and criminal courts of the Island.

Deputy High Bailiffs hold office at the pleasure of His Excellency. This appointment will be made on the advice of a Selection Panel. Candidates for this position must meet the following criteria:

• A qualified advocate, barrister or solicitor of at least seven years’ standing;
• A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of Manx law, or an ability and commitment to gain such knowledge; and
• A high level of professional achievement in the areas of law in which he or she has been engaged.

Uppermost we consider that candidates must possess a detailed knowledge of their own field of law and practice and must be able to demonstrate an ability and willingness to learn and develop professionally.

Suitable candidates will be required to undertake, on a continuing basis, appropriate training courses either on the Island, remotely or through the Judicial College of England and Wales. This requirement will be at the discretion of the First Deemster and/or the High Bailiff.

The information pack and application form are available at www.gov.im/crownappointments.

Further information can be obtained from the High Bailiff, His Worship James Brooks, Isle of Man Courts of Justice, Deemsters Walk, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 3AR, by telephone or e-mail to his clerk Liz Humphries on 01624 685474 / liz.humphries@courts.im

Applications, including a completed application form (available from the website) should be marked ‘In Confidence’ and sent to crown.appointments@gov.im.

The closing date for applications is at 5.00pm on 24 July 2026.

An interview date has provisionally been set for shortlisted applicants week commencing 10 August 2026, however this is subject to change. Interview expenses are not available in relation to this vacancy.