What’s on offer

The Channel Islands of Jersey and Guernsey are British crown dependencies that benefit from a geographical advantage over other offshore jurisdictions in that they are located close to the United Kingdom meaning there is ready access to London.

Jersey and Guernsey are considered ideal for anyone wanting to continue to do high-quality work, whilst living in first-rate surroundings in the vicinity of the UK and without facing a daily slog just to get to the office.

Both destinations are highly regarded for their independent financial regulation and stability. Law firms in these jurisdictions focus predominantly in the areas of Corporate, Funds, Trusts & Private Clients, Insolvency and Litigation; overseas-qualified solicitors are regularly recruited for all of these practice areas.

If you move to the Channel Islands, you’ll find yourself living and working in either Saint Helier (Jersey) or St Peter Port (Guernsey). These port towns enjoy a charming mix of rural English and northern French culture and architecture, and you’ll be pleased with the welcome you’ll receive from the local population.

Working hours and culture

As a lawyer working for an Offshore Magic Circle practice, you’ll be instructed by international, blue-chip clients and work alongside colleagues at premier British, European and US law firms. Offshore practices tend to work kinder hours than on the mainland, meaning you usually finish by 6pm (subject to deadlines), allowing for a more regular working day, which in turn facilitates free time to enjoy the Channel Islands’ numerous, pleasant diversions.

For example, there’s an interesting selection of bars, restaurants, shops and entertainment (golf, cycling, horse riding, water sports) comparable with any mid-sized town in England. And if you venture just 5-10 minutes’ drive away, there are beautiful winding country lanes, beaches and cliff-top walks to enjoy.

Financial considerations

Headline salaries for lawyers and solicitors are a shade below top-tier City firms; however, once you factor in the lower income tax rate, you see that what’s on offer is much more of a level playing field. Furthermore, cost of living is comparable to the UK and the housing, education, safety and health infrastructures are generally regarded as superb.

Accommodation is of a very good standard and, despite the slightly complicated local and non-local (or ‘open’) market systems, most lawyers will often be eligible for relevant housing licences, allows access to a wider array of properties to rent.

Opportunities and requirements

Work and therefore employment opportunities tend to focus most on Capital Markets, Corporate & Commercial, Finance, Funds and Litigation. Leading firms are looking for prospective hires to demonstrate either a connection to the Channel Islands or clearly expressed reasons why they wish to relocate there.

For EU passport holders, the immigration process tends to be faster than for others. Commonwealth-qualified solicitors at any level are also entitled to work in the Channel Islands and can obtain a work permit through their Channel Islands employer.

Hamilton Recruitment can guide you through this process should you wish to proceed.

If you are a lawyer and interested in working in the Channel Islands or Bermuda/Caribbean region, visit our jobs portal to see the latest vacancies. Our site also includes a downloadable All You Need to Know guide which will tell you all you need to know about living and working offshore.