Law Reform Commission: Tribute to Justice Jefferson Cumberbatch

Jeff Cumberbatch had an outstanding career as an academic lawyer.  He lectured and tutored hundreds of students from the Commonwealth Caribbean who went on to distinguish themselves as lawyers in their respective country.

Jeff was particularly proud of the contribution that he had made towards the development and careers of a large number of Commonwealth Caribbean legal practitioners. Because of the respect and high regard in which he was held, Jeff was sought after by several countries in CARICOM to assist them in the modernisation of various aspects of their laws.

In 2019, he made a seamless transition from the teaching of Law to its practical application.  He brought to his judicial career, immense research capabilities, a simple but incisive writing style and a humility that endeared him to all with whom he interacted.

Since 2019, Jeff Cumberbatch was a most valuable member of the Law Reform Commission.  We all looked forward to his attendance at meetings.  His commitment to law reform was total and I know that all of the members of the Commission will miss his contributions to our discussions.

On behalf of the members and staff of the Law Reform Commission, I extend our sincerest condolences to Jeff’s wife, Marcia, and his family.

David A.C. Simmons K.A., B.C.H.