Isle of Man Justice System
The Isle of Man is a self-governing Crown Dependency with its own laws, courts and criminal justice system. When a crime is reported, the Isle of Man Constabulary may investigate what has happened, gather evidence and speak with the people involved. The evidence may then be passed to the Attorney General’s Chambers, which decides whether a prosecution should take place.
All criminal cases begin in the Courts of Summary Jurisdiction, often called the Summary Courts. Most less serious cases are dealt with there by the High Bailiff, Deputy High Bailiff or Justices of the Peace. More serious criminal cases may be transferred to the Court of General Gaol Delivery, where a trial may take place before a Deemster and a jury.
Being involved in the justice system can feel confusing or overwhelming, particularly when you have never attended court before. As a victim or witness, you should be kept informed about the progress of the case and treated with dignity, sensitivity and respect by the agencies involved. You may also be asked to provide a witness statement or attend court to give evidence.
Victim Support Isle of Man can help you understand what may happen at each stage of the process. We can provide emotional and practical support, explain court procedures and help you prepare for attending court. Our support is free and confidential and is available whether or not a case reaches court.
Victims’ Rights
A new Victims’ Code of Practice is currently being developed which will highlight your rights all through the justice process, and this will be added here once it is available. It will be similar to the UK’s, which can be found here: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/60620279d3bf7f5ceaca0d89/victims-code-2020.pdf
The current Isle of Man Victims Code of Practice can be found here: https://www.gov.im/media/1364203/iom-code-of-practice-for-victims-and-witnesses-2312019.pdf
(please note that some of the contact details contained within the Isle of Man Code of Practice may be out of date)
You can find more information about crime and crime types in the Victim Support UK website: https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/crime-info/what-crime/
(Please note that legislation is different on the island to the UK and should you need any clarity around crime taking place on the island, please get in touch with us, or you can contact Police Headquarters on 631212)