Long-serving advocate Christopher Arrowsmith has been officially sworn-in as Deputy High Bailiff.

The former head of dispute resolution at Simcocks Advocates took the oath of allegiance and oath of Deputy High Bailiff during a ceremony at Government House on Monday.

The warrant of appointment was signed and presented by Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney.

Mr Arrowsmith, who was admitted to the Manx Bar in 1993, will take responsibility for a wide range of judicial work within the island’s criminal and civil courts.

He succeeds Her Worship Jayne Hughes, who was appointed as High Bailiff in March.

Mr Arrowsmith brings a wealth of experience to the role having previously served as a Panel Deemster and Panel Deputy High Bailiff.

He has presided over summary courts and dealt with a broad spectrum of criminal and civil matters, while his career in private practice included complex commercial and domestic litigation work.

Deemster Andrew Corlett, who administered the Oaths, said: ’The role of Deputy High Bailiff plays an important part in the administration of justice in the Isle of Man.

’It provides a testing mix of criminal, civil, family and other work, and I am sure that Christopher will relish the challenges that lie ahead.’

Mr Arrowsmith said: ’It is an honour to be appointed to the position of Deputy High Bailiff and I will endeavour to serve the Isle of Man to the best of my abilities.

’I look forward to working as a member of the judiciary to help maintain the rule of law.’