Andrew Corlett has been appointed as the island’s new First Deemster.

Deemster Corlett, aged 59, will replace the outgoing Deemster, David Doyle who steps down as First Deemster and Clerk of the Rolls at the end of this month after eight years.

Deemster Corlett has served as the island’s Second Deemster since 2011, having served as Deemster from 2009 and Deputy Deemster since 2007.

Before his appointment as Deputy Deemster, Deemster Corlett worked as a government advocate within the Attorney General’s Chambers and had 17 years’ experience in private practice.

Deemster Corlett said: ’I am delighted that Her Majesty the Queen has approved my appointment.

’It is an honour and privilege to be appointed as First Deemster and Clerk of the Rolls and to be given this unique opportunity to serve the Crown and the Isle of Man.’

Manx born and bred, Deemster Corlett studied at King William’s College and later graduated from Pembroke College at Oxford and was called to the Manx and English bars in 1984.

His work has spanned many disciplines including human rights, employment law, estate and trust disputes, civil and commercial litigation and insolvency.

In his current role as Second Deemster, Deemster Corlett has served in the Appeal Division and presided over some of the most complicated cases in recent years.

He may also be known as the judge in overall charge of the Family Court.

Recommendation

The First Deemster is a role appointed by The Queen, on the recommendation of a local selection panel.

The First Deemster is then sworn in by the Queen’s representative in the island, the Lieutenant Governor, Sir Richard Gozney at Government House.

The Governor said: ’I welcome the Queen’s appointment of Deemster Corlett as First Deemster, to succeed His Honour David Doyle who has done so much for the Isle of Man in that role.

’Deemster Corlett is a well-known and well-respected figure.’

The First Deemster is president of the High Court of Justice of the Isle of Man and also holds the positions of Clerk of the Rolls and Deputy Lieutenant Governor, stepping in for the Governor when required.

Deemster Corlett added: ’This is a challenging role, particularly at a time when the administration of justice faces considerable change and it is one I very much look forward to.’

Departing First Deemster David Doyle will take up a position as a senior lawyer within the law firm Cains’ litigation department, after the three month period within which he is not allowed to practice law of any kind after stepping down.

Deemster Doyle has also indicated he will not appear in court in his new role.

Deemster Corlett will need to be officially sworn into office, at a date yet to be announce, before taking up the role.

Following Deemster Corlett’s appointment, the island will also now be looking for a new Second Deemster.