Jessica Roland sworn in as Guernsey’s first female Bailiff

History is made in Guernsey today as we congratulate former partner, Jessica Roland, on being sworn in as Bailiff of Guernsey, becoming the first woman to hold the office in its 750-year history.

The Bailiff holds a unique and distinguished position within Guernsey’s public life, serving as the Island’s civic head and presiding over the Royal Court and States of Deliberation. The role carries significant responsibility for upholding the rule of law and supporting the effective functioning of Guernsey’s institutions.

Jessica’s swearing in ceremony, which takes place today at St James and will be attended by many of our Advocates, marks a significant moment in the evolution of the Island’s constitutional framework and reflects the progress that has been made in opening senior roles to the widest possible pool of talent.

Rachel Guthrie, Partner and Head of Mourant’s Employment law team which was previously headed by Jessica, added:

“Jessica has made a remarkable contribution to Guernsey’s legal community throughout her career and this appointment is richly deserved. On behalf of everyone at Mourant, I extend our warmest congratulations and wish her every success as she begins this new chapter in public service.”

Jessica qualified as a Guernsey advocate in July 1999 and practised at Mourant becoming Managing Partner of Mourant’s Guernsey office prior taking on the role of Deputy Bailiff in 2020.