Trinity Chambers’ Barrister, Carl Gumsley, has been appointed as Senior Magistrate for the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, the South Sandwich Islands and the British Antarctic Territory. Jurisdiction of the role is largely equivalent to the Crown Court and County Court jurisdictions in the UK and also that of Coroner.
Based in Stanley, Carl will be the only resident judicial figure on the Islands, although the Chief Justice visits at least once a year and at other times when required.
The Falkland Islands have their own laws and legal system, although they are heavily based upon and influenced by English Law with Local Ordinances adopting, modifying or adding to English Statute and Common Law. Carl will deal with crime, family, commercial, as well as wildlife, admiralty and fisheries matters. The Islands have a population of around 3000, as well as a large number of military personnel.
Carl who is a member of Trinity's Criminal, Mental Health and Regulatory practice groups will leave the UK at the end of October, ceasing Court work on 29th September. The contract is for 2 years and for that time Carl will be one of the most southerly English lawyers in the world.
Carl plans to return to the UK following his appointment- no doubt with a broader base to his legal knowledge and a vast number of photos!
Commenting on the appointment Carl said “ I am grateful to Trinity for all their support and encouragement in giving me a sabbatical and so allowing to take up this fantastic opportunity which will allow me to do what I love, against the background of the stunning beauty of the Falkland Islands, its incredible wildlife and the legendary hospitality of the people. I am looking forward to dealing with the variety of different areas of law which the post demands.”
Head of Trinity Chambers, Toby Hedworth Q.C. said of the news "The influence of Trinity Chambers has spread far and wide but Carl Gumsley has taken this to the extreme. We all wish him well for his fascinating sabbatical."