The Isle of Man has a new Second Deemster.
John Needham has been appointed as the Island’s third most senior judge.
He’s served as the High Bailiff since 2010 having previously been appointed as Clerk of the Justices in 1999.
Prior to this he had worked for five years as a solicitor dealing with both civil and criminal litigation in London.
He succeeds Deemster Andrew Corlett who was appointed as Her Majesty’s First Deemster and Clerk of the Rolls in September 2018.
The appointment is made by Her Majesty The Queen, based on a recommendation made by a local selection panel, following an open recruitment process.
The Second Deemster assists the First Deemster in respect of judicial, administration, ceremonial and other duties assigned to the Second Deemster by the First Deemster.
The Isle of Man prides itself on its values of democracy, good government and the importance of the rule of law.
The judiciary is a key component in delivering these values and in maintaining the Island’s international reputation.
The Lieutenant Governor, Sir Richard Gozney, said: “I welcome The Queen’s appointment of High Bailiff Needham as Second Deemster to succeed His Honour Andrew Corlett. The High Bailiff is well respected.”
Applications are now being invited for the role of High Bailiff with a deadline for applications of January 9th at 5pm.
