The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands (“BVI”) are a British Overseas Territory located approximately 60 miles east of Puerto Rico at a latitude of 18 degrees north of the equator. The islands offer a near perfect sub-tropical climate with temperatures rarely falling below 75 degrees nor exceeding 95 degrees Fahrenheit.As well as being an established offshore centre, the approximately 50 islands and cays that comprise the BVI are renowned for offering some of the best sailing waters in the world.

The population of over 18,000 is mostly resident on Tortola, the largest island, and site of Road Town the capital and commercial centre. The official language of the BVI is English and the Territory has adopted the United States dollar as it’s local currency.

The Territory enjoys a high degree of political autonomy. with the Government being comprised of a Governor, appointed by Her Majesty’s Government, the Attorney General, appointed by the Governor, and an elected legislature. The legislature comprises of thirteen (13) members and is elected every four years by the local electorate in constitutional elections.

The legal system is based on English Common Law as amended by local and UK legislation. The court system is part of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and is made up of the local Magistrate’s Court and High Court of Justice, with appeals being made to the Court of Appeal and ultimately to the Privy Council in London. The High Court is staffed by two resident judges whereas the Court of Appeal judges visit the Territory on circuit.