Deborah Fraser sworn in as Justice of the Court of Appeal

Surrounded by colleagues and well-wishers, Justice Deborah Fraser was officially sworn in today at Government House as a Justice of the Court of Appeal. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in a legal career spanning nearly four decades, with Justice Fraser describing the appointment as an exciting new phase in her lifelong commitment to public service.

Justice Fraser, who has served as a Justice of the Supreme Court since 2014, brings a formidable legal résumé to the appellate bench.

Her appointment is being widely regarded as a testament to her steady rise through the ranks of the Office of the Attorney General, where she began her career as Assistant Counsel in 1987 and ultimately served as Director of Legal Affairs from 2005 to 2014.

As members of the judiciary looked on during the formal proceedings, Justice Fraser reflected on her journey and said she looks forward to this next chapter with renewed purpose.

Justice Fraser’s academic achievements have underpinned her long-standing career in the Bahamian legal system. She holds a Bachelor of Laws (Hons.) from the University of the West Indies (Cave Hill, 1985) and earned her Legal Education Certificate from Norman Manley Law School in Jamaica in 1987. Her credentials also include specialized training in legislative drafting, aviation law, trade issues, and dispute resolution from institutions such as Loyola School of Law, Georgetown University, IATA in Montreal, and the University of Windsor.

Among the highlights of her extensive career are her roles as Deputy Director and later Director of Legal Affairs.