Justiceface
Justiceface
Aug 22, 2026
Bermuda

Bermuda Courts to Prioritize Money Laundering Cases

The Supreme Court of Bermuda has issued a new Practice Direction mandating that all courts in the jurisdiction prioritize cases involving money laundering, terrorist financing, and related proceeds of crime applications. This directive aims to expedite the processing and resolution of such cases, reflecting Bermuda's commitment to international standards in combating financial crimes.

Background

On August 22, 2026, the Supreme Court released Circular No. 20 of 2026, outlining the new Practice Direction. The directive applies to the Magistrates' Court, the Supreme Court, and the Court of Appeal, ensuring a unified approach across all levels of the judiciary. The Practice Direction emphasizes the importance of promptly addressing matters related to money laundering (ML), terrorist financing (TF), and associated proceeds of crime applications.

Key Provisions

  • Priority Listing: Courts are instructed to give precedence to the listing, case management, and determination of all ML and TF cases.
  • Expedited Case Management: Judges and magistrates are encouraged to employ efficient case management techniques to minimize delays in proceedings.
  • Resource Allocation: Adequate resources are to be allocated to handle the increased focus on these cases, including specialized training for judicial officers and court staff.

Implications

This directive underscores Bermuda's dedication to aligning its judicial processes with international best practices in the fight against financial crimes. By prioritizing these cases, the judiciary aims to enhance the effectiveness of legal proceedings, deter illicit activities, and maintain the integrity of Bermuda's financial system.

Legal practitioners and entities involved in financial services should be aware of this development, as it may impact the scheduling and handling of relevant cases. The full text of Circular No. 20 of 2026 is available for review, providing detailed guidance on the implementation of this Practice Direction.

For more information, refer to the official announcement: Courts To Prioritise Money Laundering Cases