Jessica Gallivan

Professional career

• The Presiding Judge of the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands, serving the St. Croix judicial district, and was re‐nominated for a second six‐year term in March 2025
• Sworn in as Presiding Judge of the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands and serves the St. Croix judicial district
• With more than two decades in the legal field, Judge Gallivan has been recognized for her judicial integrity, fairness, and dedication to the rule of law

Education

Additional information

• In January 2026, Judge Gallivan testified before the Virgin Islands Legislature’s Committee on Disaster Recovery, Infrastructure, and Planning, warning that over 800 probate cases remain pending due to staffing shortages, complex disputes, and procedural issues.
• Renominated by Governor Albert A. Bryan Jr. on March 18, 2025 for another six‐year term, confirmed by the 36th Legislature on June 4, 2025.
• This marks her second consecutive term, continuing a career of over a decade on the bench.
• Issued thoughtful rulings and mentored young attorneys and law clerks.
• Played a key role in shaping the Virgin Islands’ legal landscape.
• Been praised by Governor Bryan for her wisdom, compassion, and fairness.
• She emphasized the need for more clerical, administrative, and legal staff to clear the backlog, noting that law clerk retention is a major challenge.
• Her legal background spans over 20 years, including service in the Virgin Islands Department of Justice and other legal roles before her judicial appointment.