According to a press release from Government Information Service (GIS) on July 6, 2021, Governor Rankin welcomed Ms Palmer to the Virgin Islands Public Service at a private ceremony at the Governor’s Office.

The new magistrate’s appointment is in accordance with Section 95 of the Virgin Islands Constitution and in consultation with the Judicial and Legal Services Commission.

The Governor, according to GIS, encouraged Ms Palmer to do her part to further the rule of law, adding, “I offer every best wish as you join BVI’s magistracy and I am confident that your professional expertise and experience will serve the Court well as you hear cases and issue your judgements. As Governor I will continue to do all I can to support you the magistracy in line with our collective goal of a fair and just society that adheres to the rule of law.”

The magistrate will hear and pass rulings in all civil, criminal and quasi-criminal matters filed in the Magistrate’s Court and help manage the operations of the Court in an efficient and competent manner to ensure a professional and fair judicial service.

Professional experience

Ms Palmer served as a Resident Magistrate with the Magistracy of Belize since 2018. Her professional experience includes service as Assistant Registrar General for the Belize Supreme Court; Deputy Registrar General for Births, Deaths and Marriages with the Belize Attorney General's Ministry; and a private practise legal associate.

According to GIS, Ms Palmer holds a Certificate of Legal Education from the Norman Manley Law School, a Certificate of Public International Law from The Hague Academy of International Law, as well as Bachelor’s degrees in Law and Psychology from the University of the West Indies.