Judges Sworn in to Higher Office

Twelve members of the judiciary were sworn in to higher office for the Hilary Term by Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, today (January 8), at King’s House.

Taking the Oath of Allegiance and the Judicial Oath were Justices Georgiana Fraser and Lorna Shelly-Williams, who have been appointed to act as Court of Appeal Judges from January 15, 2024 to March 22, 2024, while Sandria Wong-Small and Dale Staple have been appointed Puisne Judges, effective January 8, 2024, in vacant posts.

Justices Sharon Millwood-Moore and Pamela Margot Mason have been appointed to act as Puisne Judges for the period December 21, 2023 until further orders, and January 15, 2024 to March 22, 2024, respectively; while Stephany Orr, Opal Smith and Tracey-Ann Johnson will serve as acting Puisne Judges for the period January 8, 2024 to March 22, 2024.

Also taking the Oath of Allegiance and the Judicial Oath as Master-in-Chambers was Tamara Dickens, effective January 8, 2024, in a vacant post, while Luciana Jackson and Christine McNeil were appointed acting Masters-in-Chambers for the period January 15, 2024 to March 22, 2024 and January 8, 2024 to March 22, 2024, respectively.

In his charge to the newly sworn-in judicial officers, the Governor-General said that they are standard bearers of justice, whose actions should inspire trust and confidence in the legal system.

“As you embark on this solemn journey, remember that the administration of justice demands wisdom, patience and above all a deep sense of humanity. Your judgements must not only be legally sound but also infused with empathy and understanding of the diversity of our society,” he said.

The Governor-General congratulated the judicial officers and wished for them a tenure marked by fairness, integrity and a relentless pursuit of justice for all.

For his part, Chief Justice, Hon. Bryan Sykes, informed that Jamaica became a member of the International Consortium for Court Excellence (ICCE) on December 11, 2023.

“This represents a major milestone for the judiciary of Jamaica as we continue the work of transforming the courts into modern, efficient places of work,” he said.

Mr. Sykes shared that the judicial officers who were sworn in have a track record of high performance and will help Jamaica to maintain its ICCE membership.

“Congratulations to all of you, and we look forward to your contribution and continued work to make our judiciary one of the best in the world,” Mr. Sykes said.

Responding on behalf of her colleagues, Justice Fraser said they will strive to make a positive impact in the execution of their duties.

“We are most pleased to accept the honour bestowed upon us today. We also accept the accompanying challenges with wide open arms and with a determined spirit. Despite the challenges and difficulties that we have faced before in our various roles and will continue to face, without reservation we declare here and now that we are up to the challenge,” Justice Fraser said.