Historic Appointment of Justice Harold Willocks Marks a Milestone for the Territory’s Highest Court
St. Thomas, VI – The Virgin Islands Supreme Court has welcomed its first new justice in 18 years with the appointment of Harold Willocks. On Friday, an investiture ceremony was held to formally swear in Justice Willocks, the fourth justice to serve on the territory’s apex court. His appointment marks a historic moment for the Virgin Islands legal community, bringing both a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the unique cultural fabric of the territory.
Chief Justice Rhys Hodge spoke at the ceremony, reflecting on the long journey towards establishing the Supreme Court of the Virgin Islands and emphasizing the importance of having judges who understand the community they serve. “The people of the Virgin Islands expect our judges to not only administer the law but to appreciate how life here is both similar and different from life on the mainland,” Chief Justice Hodge said. “This is especially true for those who serve as Justices of the Supreme Court. Justice Willocks’s appointment reflects this understanding, and we are proud to welcome him to this esteemed position.”
Chief Justice Hodge highlighted Justice Willocks’s lifelong connection to the Virgin Islands, calling him “a son of the soil” who has served the community in various capacities throughout his career. From his early days as a teacher to his roles as a prosecutor and public defender, Justice Willocks has a longstanding history of public service. His journey culminated in his appointment to the Superior Court, where he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to justice.
Chief Justice Hodge also pointed to Justice Willocks’s scholarly contributions, noting that his book, The Umbilical Cord: The History of the United States Virgin Islands From Pre-Colombian Era to the Present, along with his more than 20 published works, serves as a testament to his deep understanding of the Virgin Islands’ history, culture, and legal landscape. “Justice Willocks not only has a comprehensive knowledge of Virgin Islands law but also a profound understanding of how the law impacts our community,” said Chief Justice Hodge.
Associate Justice Maria Cabret followed, praising Justice Willocks’s “thoroughly thoughtful” approach to the law, as well as his personal qualities of kindness, compassion, and humility. “Justice Willocks is undoubtedly one of the brightest stars in the Virgin Islands legal community,” she said, noting the respect and admiration he commands from both colleagues and the wider community. “We are fortunate to have him on the Supreme Court.”
Justice Arlington Swan offered a word of caution to the new justice, acknowledging that appellate work is distinct from trial work. However, Justice Swan expressed complete confidence in Justice Willocks’s ability to adapt quickly, citing his “towering intellect” and commitment to excellence.
Speakers from the Virgin Islands Superior Court, the Virgin Islands Bar Association, and the Legislature also joined in recognizing Justice Willocks’s outstanding legal career and dedication to public service.
In his remarks, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. reflected on Justice Willocks’s humility, despite his remarkable achievements. “In our community, he’s just known as Harold,” Governor Bryan said. “You could meet him anywhere, and you would never know he’s a justice. That humility is a blessing, and it speaks volumes about his character.”
Justice Willocks’s appointment to the Supreme Court represents a significant milestone for the Virgin Islands and its judiciary. His deep roots in the community, commitment to justice, and wealth of experience will no doubt serve the territory for years to come.
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