Chief Magistrate

The Government of Montserrat is inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the post of Chief Magistrate in the British Overseas Territory of Montserrat.

The Government of Montserrat is inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the post of Chief Magistrate in the British Overseas Territory of Montserrat.

JOB PURPOSE

To undertake the duties ascribed to the Chief Magistrate under the Laws of Montserrat and to manage the operations of the Office of the Magistrate.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Undertake the duties ascribed to the Chief Magistrate subject to the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code;
• Civil Jurisdiction - To hear and determine in a summary way all disputes between party and party touching any matter of debt, breach of contract, covenant or other undertaking, injury to the person or other matter in any case in which the debt, damages or balance sought to be recovered does not exceed $10,000.00;
• Preside as Chairman of the Labour Tribunal;
• Hear Affiliation matters and certain matrimonial matters and other matters relating to the custody of children;
• Conduct Juvenile Court;
• Perform the duties of a Coroner;
• Manage the resources at the disposal of the Magistrate’s Court, including the duties and responsibilities of Accounting Officer and the development and management of staff performance;
• Undertake such other duties as may be assigned by Her Excellency the Governor.

PERSONNEL SPECIFICATIONS

The successful applicant must:-

• have a Bachelor’s Degree in Law and a Certificate of Legal Education;
• be qualified to practice law on Montserrat and have general knowledge of the Laws of Montserrat;
• have at least 7, and preferably 10, years practicing as an Attorney-at-Law in criminal and civil matters, preferably but not mandated to be in the OECS or any Commonwealth jurisdiction;
• demonstrate strong leadership and management competencies and excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Appointments will be made on a contractual basis for an initial period of two years with the possibility of an additional two years.

REMUNERATION PACKAGE

The annual total remuneration package is EC$197,088.00 broken down as follows:

Basic Salary:  R6 that is EC$81,288.00 per annum (Taxable)

Allowances

• Entertainment  - $8,400.00 per annum (Taxable)
• Housing - $30,000.00 per annum (Taxable)
• Legal Services - $48,000.00 per annum (Taxable)
• Market Premium - $18,000.00 per annum (Taxable)
• Telephone - $1,800.00 per annum (Taxable)
• Transport - $9,600.00 per annum (non-Taxable)

The Market Premium may be negotiated based on qualifications and experience. In addition, a performance-based gratuity (currently 12.5%) will be paid on successful completion of the contract.