Meet Guernsey's new Bailiff
Richard McMahon has been announced as Guernsey’s new Bailiff.
At the moment, he is the Deputy Bailiff and will take on the role in May 2020 when the current Bailiff, Sir Richard John Collas, retires.
Her Majesty the Queen approved the appointment on the recommendation of the Lord Chancellor.
PROFILE OF RICHARD MCMAHON
Born in 1962
Educated at Abingdon School - an independent boarding school in Oxfordshire
Studied at Liverpool & Cambridge universities
Studied Law in London & France
Became an English Barrister in 1986
Became a Guernsey Barrister in 1998
Appointed a Crown Advocate in 2008
Appointed Solicitor General & Queen's Counsel in 2009
Became Deputy Bailiff of Guernsey in 2012
ROLE OF BAILIFF
The Bailiff represents the island in non-political matters and has leading judicial and civic duties.
As Guernsey's "leading citizen" the Bailiff will greet and welcome members of the Royal Family and dignitaries visiting the Island.
The Bailiff is a the President of the Court of Appeal and sits at a judge in both that court and the Royal Court.
The Bailiff is also responsible for maintaining order in the States assembly - similar to the role of the Speaker of the House in the UK's House of Commons.
The Bailiff represents Guernsey outside the island.