Oliver Helfrich has been appointed by The King, as His Majesty’s Attorney General for the Isle of Man, following an open recruitment process and the recommendation of a local selection panel. He will succeed Walter Wannenburgh KC who is retiring after four years as Attorney General and 11 years serving as a Crown officer. He will assume the appointment in January 2027.
Mr Helfrich has built a distinguished legal career spanning more than two decades, including senior roles in both the Attorney General’s Chambers and private practice at Humphrey & Helfrich Advocates.
Throughout his career, Mr Helfrich has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service and the administration of justice. Originally from Germany and having grown up in Northamptonshire, he qualified as a solicitor in England and Wales in 2002, before moving to the Isle of Man the following year. He became a Manx Advocate in 2006, going on to build an extensive legal career in both public and private practice.
The Attorney General acts as the legal adviser to the Lieutenant Governor, the Council of Ministers, Government Departments and Statutory Boards. His Majesty’s Attorney General provides guidance on matters of law and issues relating to the Isle of Man’s domestic and external interests and attends sittings of Tynwald, the Legislative Council and the Council of Ministers
Mr Helfrich said:
‘I feel extremely privileged to have been appointed as His Majesty’s Attorney General for the Isle of Man. Having previously served in the Attorney General’s Chambers and spent many years advising public bodies across the Island, I understand the importance of this role and the responsibility it carries.
‘I look forward to serving the Island and working with colleagues across Government and the legal profession in the years ahead.’
Mr Helfrich will be officially sworn in to the role early next year by His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, on behalf of His Majesty The King, at a ceremony to be held at Government House.
The Lieutenant Governor, Sir John Lorimer, said:
‘I am delighted that Oliver Helfrich has been selected to be the next Attorney General for the Isle of Man. He brings extensive legal expertise, a deep understanding of the Island and its institutions, and a longstanding commitment to public service. I wish him every success when he takes up this important constitutional office in the New Year.’
