Mrs. Annette Williams-Sylvester has been appointed Court Manager for the Magistrate’s Court in the Virgin Islands.

The appointment took effect on January 27 and was made by His Excellency the Governor, Mr. John S. Duncan, OBE, acting in accordance with the advice of the Judicial and Legal Services Commission.

Mrs. Williams-Sylvester will ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the Magistrate’s Court by planning, administering and managing the overall court’s activities including the human resources function, budget administration, procurement, records management and oversight of daily activities and services.

The court manager will also provide a wide range of administrative tasks including in-court duties, client-contact enquiries and office administration responsibilities to support the operations of the court in a timely and professional manner.

Mrs. Williams-Sylvester is responsible for the development, evaluation and implementation of new policies and procedures to ensure the court is performing at a high standard at all times.  She will liaise with the Judiciary, external organisations, groups and individuals who interface with the court to ensure adequate coordination and communication.

The Court Manager will also oversee human resources at the Magistrate’s Court in coordination with the Human Resources Manager of the Governor’s Group, and will review and monitor court operations, including case flow and make recommended changes for improved efficiency.

Mrs. Williams-Sylvester graduated with an LLB with Honors in Commercial Law from the University of the West of England in 2015.  She holds a certificate in Basic Court Paralegal Studies from the Council of Legal Education, Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad, 2001. 

Her legal work experience stems throughout several offices in the Virgin Islands.  Prior to pursing her studies, Mrs. Williams-Sylvester was employed with the Supreme Court of the Virgin Islands for a total of 22 years with eight years in the post of Case Manager assigned to the Civil, Criminal and Commercial Divisions. 

Mrs. Williams-Sylvester also completed internships at Harney, Westwood and Riegels, the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Magistrate’s Court.

The Magistrate’s Court is an entity of statute, and forms part of the judiciary in the Virgin Islands. It has jurisdiction in criminal matters, civil matters and family law matters, among other legislated areas. 

Photograph attached – Court Manager, Magistrate’s Court - Mrs. Annette Williams-Sylvester (GIS/Mrs. Ronnielle Frazer)