A semi-retired private client adviser has been elected as Jersey’s newest Jurat.

Michael Edmund Powell (66) gained 50 votes from the Electoral College, against 27 votes for the other candidate, Donald Christopher Powell (65). One vote was spoilt.

Mr Powell is due to be sworn in by the Royal Court on Thursday 6 March.

He will take the place of Dr David Gareth Hughes, who is retiring after six years as a Jurat.

Mr Powell is a semi-retired private client adviser, who is also currently a Procureur for the Parish of Trinity.

He was proposed by Advocate Michael O’Connell, and seconded by Deputy David Warr.

The role of Jurat is one of the oldest and most important judicial roles in the island.

They are elected by the island’s Electoral College – made up of the Bailiff, Jurats, Constables, Deputies, Advocates, and solicitors.

The twelve Jurats sit alongside a judge in court cases, deciding on facts while the judge makes decisions on the law.

They work with the judge to determine sentences and hold the power to determine verdicts.