Viscount's Department
Viscount's Department
Upholding justice with independence and integrity
From enforcing court orders to protecting the financial interests of vulnerable individuals, we have a wide range of functions. We manage juries, investigate sudden and unexpected deaths, handle bankruptcies, and seize and manage assets, often related to financial crime. Our work touches the lives of Islanders during their most critical moments and challenging times.
With a history stretching back to at least the 13th century, the Viscount is the executive officer of Jersey’s Royal Court and States Assembly. Under the leadership of Viscount Advocate Mark Harris and Deputy Viscount Advocate Matt Berry, our dedicated staff are proud of the important role they play in delivering justice for the Island.
Join us and make a difference
Every day brings new and unique challenges, requiring a diverse range of skills - from legal expertise and analytical thinking to empathy, effective communication and conflict resolution. Our team takes immense pride in supporting Jersey’s justice system and achieving meaningful outcomes for the Island we serve.
If you're ready to make a real difference and contribute to a department that values sensitivity and integrity, we’d love to hear from you. Join us and be part of a team that’s shaping justice in Jersey.
Enforcing justice
Our Enforcement team make a tangible impact by upholding court orders and ensuring justice is served. Whether collecting fines in criminal cases, recovering civil debts, seizing property, carrying out evictions, or even making arrests when necessary, they’re at the forefront of maintaining fairness and accountability.
To thrive in this area, you’ll need: Exceptional communication, conflict resolution, and professionalism. These skills are all vital to managing disputes and handling challenging conversations and situations calmly and effectively.
Seizing and managing assets
Our Enforcement team also manage and sell assets in response to court orders. Collaborating with the Law Officers’ Department and other partners, the team help ensure assets are handled appropriately, whether dealing with debt collection or proceeds of crime.
To thrive in this area, you’ll need: An understanding of laws and regulations related to debt collection, fines, and property seizure, as well as negotiation skills to facilitate the proper disposal of confiscated assets.
Investigating deaths
Our Court Services team provide closure and clarity by assisting with investigations into sudden or unnatural deaths. Working closely with police and other specialists, they help ensure thorough inquests are conducted and that accurate documentation is provided.
To thrive in this area, you’ll need: High attention to detail and the ability to work well in a multi-disciplinary team, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. Ability to deal with people and death related matters with sensitivity and empathy.
Managing juries
Our Court Services team also organise and manage juries for serious criminal cases in the Royal Court. They coordinate jury selection and handle queries from the public with empathy and professionalism.
To thrive in this area, you’ll need: Strong organisational abilities, experience of working on projects, and emotional intelligence.
Protecting vulnerable people’s financial interests
Our Insolvency and Delegate team make a real difference by safeguarding the property and finances of vulnerable individuals. From regulating attorneys and delegates, to managing assets and offering tailored support, your work will help protect those who need it most.
To thrive in this area, you’ll need: Analytical thinking, financial acumen, and strong written and verbal communication skills.
Handling bankruptcies
Our Insolvency and Delegate team also support individuals and businesses through complex financial situations by providing expert advice on insolvency procedures and handling bankruptcies. In addition, the team provides insolvency advice and assistance to the Royal Court, as well as supervising the licensing of liquidators in Jersey.
To thrive in this area, you’ll need: Strong problem solving and analytical skills, negotiation skills and commercial acumen, as well as a solid understanding of the laws and regulations related to insolvency.
Operating the department
Our Operations team is essential in ensuring that every team across the Viscount’s Department operates efficiently and effectively to achieve our strategic objectives and deliver exceptional service.
As a vital part of our department, we lead on:
- Business support and administration - keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
- Central policy and strategy - shaping the frameworks that guide our work.
- Finance and knowledge management - ensuring resources are well-managed and accessible.
- Health and safety - creating a safe and supportive working environment.
- Office accommodation - overseeing the spaces where we work and thrive.
- Collaborative partnerships - building strong relationships with Jersey Public Service departments and external suppliers.
To thrive in this area, you’ll need: Strong organisational and administration skills, as well as strategic thinking, financial acumen, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
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Strengthening justice through collaboration
At the Viscount’s Department, our work extends far beyond Jersey’s shores. We collaborate with a wide range of local and international partners, demonstrating our commitment to the delivery of justice and the fight against crime on a global scale.
Our efforts in this area were recognised in Jersey's 2024 Mutual Evaluation Report by Moneyval, highlighting our pivotal role in combating financial crime. Through our memorandum of understanding with Jersey law enforcement agencies, we contribute to the effective investigation of Financial Crime Investigation and Criminal Asset Recovery in Jersey.
As a founding member of the International Association of Insolvency Regulators (IAIR), the Criminal Assets Management and Enforcement Regulators Association (CAMERA) and an observer in the Balkan Asset Management Interagency Network (BARMIN), we’re at the forefront of international collaboration. These partnerships enable us to share expertise, enhance our capabilities, and play a vital role in global initiatives to disrupt criminal networks and protect communities.
Join us and become part of a team that is making a tangible impact both at home and on the international stage.
Our skills
Joining the Viscount’s Department means working alongside a team of dedicated and highly talented professionals. Our colleagues bring extensive expertise and excel in a diverse range of skills.
Explore our skills+
- Legal knowledge - understanding of laws and regulations related to debt collection, fines, and property seizure
- Negotiation skills - ability to negotiate payment plans and settlements with debtors
- Communication skills - clear and effective communication, both written and verbal, to interact with debtors, legal professionals, and other stakeholders
- Analytical skills - ability to analyse financial information and debtor profiles to determine the best course of action
- Attention to detail - ensuring accuracy in documentation and compliance with legal procedures
- Conflict resolution - skills to handle disputes and difficult conversations with debtors calmly and professionally
- Empathy and emotional intelligence - understanding and managing the emotional aspects of debt collection, showing empathy while maintaining firmness
- Organisational skills - efficiently managing case files, deadlines, and follow-ups
- Teamwork - collaborating effectively with other team members, law enforcement, and legal professionals
- Technical proficiency - familiarity with relevant software and tools for tracking debts, payments, and legal action
If you possess some or all of these skills, a career in the Viscount’s Department could be the perfect fit. Join us and make a meaningful impact in Jersey’s justice system and our community.
Pride in every action
At the Viscount’s Department, we take pride in the work that we do, whether enforcing court orders, managing assets, or supporting Islanders through challenging times. We take immense satisfaction in delivering sensitive, precise, and impactful services. Our work is a cornerstone of Jersey’s justice system, and our pride unites us in making a meaningful difference every day.
Diverse and meaningful work
Here, no two days are the same. Whether managing juries, investigating deaths, or protecting the financial interests of vulnerable Islanders, you’ll be part of a dynamic team tackling varied responsibilities. Every role contributes directly to delivering justice and supporting the community with fairness and sensitivity.
Commitment to development
We have a strong track record of supporting and encouraging our people through training and development opportunities. Whether you're gaining new skills or advancing your expertise, we foster a culture of continuous learning, empowering you to take on new opportunities. If you’re looking for a role that combines challenge, variety, and the chance to make a real impact, the Viscount’s Department is the place for you.
Find out more
Find out more about what we do at Viscount's Department - Courts.je
Our offer to you
A career with the Jersey Public Service comes with a range of benefits, alongside the chance to make a real difference in Islanders' lives.
Our package includes a competitive salary and generous pension plan, plus we support work-life balance with family-friendly policies, flexible working options, career break opportunities, and the ability to buy extra leave.
We’re also committed to your development, offering study leave and learning support, while our volunteering leave allows you to give back to our community.
