Oliver Helfrich has been appointed as His Majesty’s Attorney General for the Isle of Man.

The appointment by King Charles follows an open recruitment process and the recommendation of a local selection panel.

Mr Helfrich will succeed Walter Wannenburgh KC, who is retiring after four years as Attorney General and 11 years serving as a Crown officer.

He has more than two decades of legal experience, including senior positions within the Attorney General’s Chambers and private practice at Humphrey & Helfrich Advocates.

Originally from Germany and raised in Northamptonshire, he qualified as a solicitor in England and Wales in 2002 before moving to the Isle of Man in 2003.

He qualified as a Manx Advocate in 2006 and has since developed a legal career spanning both public and private practice.

The Attorney General serves as legal adviser to the Lieutenant Governor, Council of Ministers, government departments and statutory boards.

‘I feel extremely privileged to have been appointed as His Majesty’s Attorney General for the Isle of Man,’ Mr Helfrich said.

‘Having previously served in the Attorney General’s Chambers and spent many years advising public bodies across the island, I understand the importance of this role and the responsibility it carries.

‘I look forward to serving the island and working with colleagues across Government and the legal profession in the years ahead.’

Mr Helfrich is due to take up the position in January 2027 and will be formally sworn into office early next year by the Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer, on behalf of His Majesty The King, with the ceremony taking place at Government House.

The Lieutenant Governor, Sir John Lorimer, said: ‘Oliver brings extensive legal expertise, a deep understanding of the island and its institutions, and a longstanding commitment to public service.

‘I wish him every success when he takes up this important constitutional office in the New Year.’