Jurisdiction Dispute in the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court: Key Takeaways

Sun Feb 01 2026 13:52:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, presided by Justice Rene Williams, is currently reviewing a jurisdiction dispute involving Attorney General's Office – Antigua & Barbuda. Key arguments were presented by Mr. David and the AG's counsel regarding the extent of the court's authority over the case amidst parallel proceedings in California and London.

On January 16, 2026, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court held a hearing concerning jurisdiction in a case involving the Attorney General's Office and Mr. David. Despite submissions from both parties, Justice Rene Williams expressed concerns over jurisdictional validity given the residency of defendants and their connections to Antigua. The court is set to provide a written ruling on the matter soon.

Jurisdiction Dispute in the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court: Key Takeaways

January 16, 2026 | Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court

Presided over by Justice Rene Williams, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court is currently addressing a complex jurisdiction dispute involving the Attorney General's Office and Mr. David. The judge retained jurisdiction of the case, despite the existence of parallel foreign actions. The court's hearing focused on clarifying recent submissions from both parties regarding the issue of jurisdiction.

Justice Williams noted the Attorney General's Office's provisional view, which asserted the court lacked jurisdiction. The basis for this claim revolves around several points: the majority of defendants reside outside Antigua, the claims may not be governed by Antiguan law, and the factual connection between the alleged conduct and jurisdiction appears weak. Furthermore, complications related to costs and logistics due to overseas witnesses were highlighted.

Mr. David countered these assertions, emphasizing that significant conduct and harm had occurred within Antigua and Barbuda, arguing that jurisdiction should still apply despite the limited physical presence of some defendants in the region. He highlighted the Alpha Nero yacht's prior presence in Antigua as a critical point in his argument.

Justice Williams also referenced a letter from Howard Kennedy LLP, which denied jurisdiction and asserted they would not participate in the proceedings, limiting their involvement to UK enforcement. Mr. David contended that their absence constituted contempt and that UK authorities were aware of the service.

In conclusion, Justice Williams thanked both parties for their presentations and indicated a ruling on the matter is forthcoming. The Registrar is expected to issue a written ruling early next month, which will determine the court's direction moving forward.