McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes

We are proud to announce that McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes has once again been ranked as a Tier 1 firm in the 2025 edition of IFLR1000, marking over a decade of recognition by this prestigious global legal directory. The IFLR1000 is one of the world's most respected legal guides, with rankings based on extensive client feedback and market analysis across multiple jurisdictions. This year, the guide highlighted the exceptional work of five of our attorneys. The Highly Regarded Lawyer rating is conferred on Senior Partner John F. Wilson KC, Consultant H. Campbell Clear III, Partner Kimberley A. Rolle and Partner Venessa L. Smith. Partner Gia R. Sands has also been elevated from Notable Practitioner to Rising Star Partner, whilst Partner Kimberley A. Rolle has once again earned the Women Leader ranking; one of only three attorneys in The Bahamas to receive this honour. Congratulations to our attorneys for their continued excellence, and to the firm for upholding its commitment to legal leadership.,

McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes is proud to announce that the firm has once again been recognised as a top tier firm in the 2025 edition of the Chambers & Partners High Net Worth (HNW) Guide. The prestigious directory, which spans more than 100 jurisdictions. identifies the leading law firms and lawyers globally who specialise in international private wealth. MB&H is honoured to be one of only four law firms in The Bahamas ranked in the leading ‘Band 1’ category for Offshore: Trusts. We are also pleased to share that five of our attorneys received individual distinctions in this year's guide for their exceptional work and expertise. The directory bestowed ‘Band 1’ rankings on Senior Partner John F. Wilson KC and Partner Sean N. C. Moree KC. Chambers and Partners also conferred ‘Up and Coming’ rankings on Partner Michelle I. Deveaux and Partner Vanessa L. Smith. Partner Erin M. Hill, who was recently promoted from Senior Associate, also received an ‘Associates to Watch’ rating. We commend our attorneys for this well-earned honour and remain proud of our continued contributions to the legal profession in our commitment to delivering exceptional service to our clients.

We are delighted to announce that Mrs. Erin M. Hill has been appointed a Partner of the firm. Erin joined the firm in 2015 with an impressive academic background. She is a member of the Private Client and the Litigation & Dispute Resolution practice groups of the Firm and has developed into one of the key leaders within the Firm in those practice groups. Erin specializes in trust and private client advisory and contentious matters and has become a trusted voice in the industry. On her appointment, Erin commented: "I am truly honoured to have been appointed a Partner at McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes, a firm committed to excellence, integrity, and exceptional client service. I am deeply grateful to the Partners and colleagues who have mentored and encouraged me along the way and I express my sincere thanks to my Supervising Partner, Mr. Sean N. C. Moree KC, for his consistent support, invaluable insight, and mentorship. Most importantly, I thank God for His grace and guidance, and my incredible family for their unwavering love, patience, and support. This milestone is as much theirs as it is mine. I look forward to contributing meaningfully to the Firm's continued success and embark on this next chapter with humility, gratitude and excitement." "Erin has consistently exemplified excellence, professionalism, and depth across a range of complex practice areas. Her sharp legal mind, strong work ethic, and genuine commitment to client service have earned her the respect of colleagues and clients alike. Her commitment to both the law and community service also speaks to the calibre of leader she is. We are proud to welcome her to the partnership and excited for all she will bring to this next chapter." - Senior Partner John F. Wilson KC ABOUT ERIN M. HILL Erin graduated from Davidson College in May 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish Literature and Language and a minor in Philosophy. She then completed her Bachelors of Laws degree obtaining First Class Honours from City University, London in 2014 and was called to the Bar of England and Wales and The Bahamas Bar in 2015. In October 2016, Erin received a Masters of Law in Professional Legal Skills and her thesis focused on the metamorphosis of Arbitration. Erin is also an ADRgroup accredited civil and commercial mediator. She is a certified Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP), a Full Member of STEP (Bahamas branch) and sits on the Board of Directors of the STEP (Bahamas) Branch. Outside of the law, Erin enjoys spending time with her family and travelling. She is also passionate about contributing to community-focussed initiatives and outreach efforts.

It is with great pleasure that we announce the promotion of Ms. Theominique D. Nottage to Senior Associate at McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes. Theominique joined the firm in 2024 and specializes in Litigation, Arbitration & Dispute Resolution, as well as Trusts and Private Client matters. On her promotion, Theominique shared: "I am sincerely grateful to the firm's partnership for this opportunity. I especially wish to thank my supervising partner, Mr. John F. Wilson, KC, for his guidance and mentorship, which have been invaluable to me since joining the firm. I genuinely appreciate being part of the McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes family, and I look forward to continuing to build my professional practice in such a supportive environment." "Since joining the firm, Theominique has consistently demonstrated an exceptional command of complex legal issues and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her academic credentials and specialised training in arbitration and dispute resolution have also translated into a sophisticated and strategic approach to client advocacy both in litigation and in alternative dispute resolution forums. I am proud to congratulate her on this well-earned promotion and look forward to her continued contributions to the firm." - Senior Partner John F. Wilson KC ABOUT THEOMINIQUE D. NOTTAGE, MCIArb Since being admitted to the Bar of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas in October 2015, Theominique has held roles in both the public and private sectors and formerly served as an Arbitration Consultant to the Government of The Bahamas. Her educational background is diverse and as a 2015 Chevening Scholar, Theominique obtained a Master of Laws with Merit in Comparative and International Dispute Resolution from the School of International Arbitration, Queen Mary, University of London (London, England). She also holds a Bachelor of Arts with Integral Honours in International Studies and Spanish from Le Moyne College (Syracuse, New York), a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) from The University of the West Indies (Cave Hill, Barbados), a Legal Education Certificate from the Council of Legal Education's Eugene Dupuch Law School (Nassau, The Bahamas) and in 2024, Theominique completed the prestigious United Nations Fellowship in International Law for Latin America and the Caribbean (Santiago, Chile). Actively involved in the international arbitration community, Theominique has held leadership roles in several professional organisations and is currently the Co-Chair of the Institute for Transnational Arbitration's Americas Initiative Caribbean Task Force. She holds the professional designation of Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.

We are pleased to announce the promotion of Ms. Berchel K.L. Wilson to Senior Associate at McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes. Berchel joined the firm in 2017 and specializes in corporate and commercial litigation. Her practice areas also include trust litigation and asset management, banking and finance, family law and maritime law. On her promotion, Berchel shared: "I am truly honoured to be promoted to Senior Associate and deeply thankful to the firm's leadership for their trust and support. I'm especially grateful to my supervising partner, Mr. John F. Wilson, KC, for his continued mentorship and encouragement throughout my journey. It is a privilege to work alongside such talented colleagues, and I look forward to contributing even more meaningfully to the firm's continued success." "Berchel has distinguished herself through her meticulous approach to complex matters and her poise in high-level litigation. Berchel has shown remarkable growth, sound judgment, and keen leadership. She approaches each matter with discipline and diligence, and this promotion is a natural progression of her continued excellence. We are proud to see her step confidently into this new role as Senior Associate." - Senior Partner John F. Wilson KC ABOUT BERCHEL K.L. WILSON Berchel attended the College of the Bahamas (as it then was) where she attained her Associate of Law and Criminal Justice in 2012. She then transitioned to the University of the West Indies (at the College of The Bahamas) to pursue a Bachelor of Law, which she successfully attained with honours in 2015. In 2017, Berchel was called to the Bahamas Bar and joined the Firm in the same year. Berchel's commitment to continuous professional development has enhanced her legal acumen and is a proven benefit to her clients and the Firm. She is known for her industrious nature and efficient client management which has facilitated a diverse work portfolio. She frequently appears before the Bahamian Supreme Court and Court of Appeal and most recently appeared as junior counsel to John F. Wilson KC before His Majesty's Privy Council in 2024. In addition, Berchel is passionate about serving her community and believes that service to others is a privilege that should be embraced. She is a devout Rotarian and is a member of the Rotary Club of East Nassau having served as President of the Rotaract Club of East Nassau. Berchel is also a strong proponent of environmental law and serves on the Bahamas National Trust Legal Advisory Board.

McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes is proud to announce that the firm has once again been ranked in the top tier of Chambers and Partners, a prestigious global legal directory that ranks the most outstanding law firms and lawyers across 180 jurisdictions worldwide. This year, the firm received 'Band1' rankings in General Business Law and General Business Law: Dispute Resolution. Seven of our attorneys were also singled out for special mention. In General Business Law Dispute Resolution, Senior Partner John Wilson KC received a ‘Band 1’ ranking. Partner Sean Moree KC received a ‘Band 2’ ranking and a ‘Band 3’ ranking was conferred on Partner Kevin Moree. The directory bestowed an Up and Coming rating on Partner Vanessa Smith. In General Business Law, Chambers and Partners also conferred a ‘Band 2’ ranking on Partner Kimberley Rolle, an Up and Coming rating on Partner Gia Sands, and a Senior Statespeople ranking on H. Campbell Cleare III. This recognition reflects McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes’ unwavering dedication to legal excellence, client service, and industry leadership. We congratulate our firm and distinguished attorneys on this well-earned achievement and take pride in our continued contributions to the legal profession. For more information, visit Chambers.com and the Chambers Global rankings. Client Feedback published in Chambers “The team have shown a deep understanding of Bahamian law and profound experience with the Bahamian legal procedures in order to defend our company in court.” “John Wilson KC is extremely smart. He can produce the right strategic advice immediately off the top of his head.”  “Sean Moree KC is able to analyse matters and disseminate back to us in an easily digestible way.”  “Kevin Moree is an outstanding lawyer who has taken on the legal representation of our company in court with the highest level of dedication and service standards.”  “Kimberley Rolle is an excellent attorney. Her knowledge and thorough approach to work engender a sense of confidence that one is well represented.”  “Vanessa Smith is a very capable up-and-coming lawyer.”  “Gia Sands is an up-and-comer who is a really strong drafter and negotiator.”  “Campbell Cleare is a talented real estate and general corporate counsel who is very adept at drafting contracts, and a very strong advocate, as well as a good negotiator.”   

McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes is pleased to announce the appointment of four distinguished associates, further strengthening our commitment to excellence and client service. Theominique D. Nottage Is an Associate in the Admiralty, Shipping & Aviation, Litigation and Dispute Resolution and Trusts and Private Client practice groups. With a Master of Laws with Merit in Comparative and International Dispute Resolution from the School of International Arbitration, Queen Mary, University of London, as a Chevening Scholar, Theominique has received specialised training that includes a Distinction in International Award Writing from both her alma mater and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. Theominique also holds a Bachelor of Arts with Integral Honours in International Studies and Spanish from Le Moyne College, a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) from The University of the West Indies, and recently completed the United Nations Fellowship Regional Course in International Law for Latin America and the Caribbean, which adds depth to her understanding of complex cross­border legal matters. Since being admitted to the Bar of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas in October 2015, Theominique has held roles in both the public and private sectors. She acted formerly as an Arbitration Consultant to the Government of The Bahamas, leading initiatives to establish The Bahamas as a premier jurisdiction for ADA in the Americas with her achievements including legislative reform, the enactment of the UNCITRAL Model Law and the creation of collaborative partnerships with key industry stakeholders like the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre. Gabrielle D. Wilson is an Associate in the Corporate & Commercial Transactions and Real Estate practice groups. She attended West Virginia University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. She then obtained a Graduate Diploma of Law with Honours from The University of Law, London Bloomsbury. Gabrielle went on to complete the Bar Vocational Studies program at the City, University of London, and was awarded a Very Competent. In July of 2023, Gabrielle was called to the Bar of England & Wales by the Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn, and was subsequently admitted to the Bar of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas in October of 2023. Gabrielle is a member of The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn, The Bahamas Bar Association, The Bahamas National Trust and the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Floidira M. Collie is an Associate in the Family Law, Litigation & Dispute Resolution, Labour & Employment and Trust & Private Client practice groups. She began her legal studies at Philander Smith College where she graduated Magnum Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. She then obtained her Bachelor of Laws from the University of The Bahamas with distinction and went on to complete professional training at the Eugene Dupuch Law School. She was then called to The Bahamas Bar in 2020. Floidira's legal career began at the Eugene Dupuch Law School Legal Aid Clinic where she specialized in civil and commercial litigation, matrimonial and family law, and probate and estate planning. Floidira has also been Instrumental in mentoring the next generation of legal professionals as a Legal Aid Course Advisor and Lead Advisor for the Community Legal Aid Programme. Floidira's dedication, coupled with her strong ethical standards, makes her a trusted advocate and counsellor. Her notable achievements include the Munroe & Associates Prize for Most Outstanding Student in Criminal Practice & Procedure (2019) and the Philander Smith College Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society (2014). RaSean V. Longley ls an Associate in the Financial Services & Regulation, Litigation & Dispute Resolution and Tax and Trade practice groups. She began her academic journey at the College of The Bahamas, earning an Associates of Arts degree with honors in 2016. She then went on to complete a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) with honors at the University of the West Indies In 2019. RaSean then matriculated to the Eugene Dupuch Law School where she obtained her Legal Education Certificate and earned several prestigious awards. RaSean was formally called to the Bahamas Bar in October 2021. RaSean achieved further academic distinction by earning two Diplomas in Anti-Money Laundering and Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) with the International Compliance Association spearheaded by Bahamas Institute of Financial Services and was honored as the top student in the Governance, Risk, and Compliance course. Before transitioning to McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes, RaSean worked as a Judicial Research Counsel with the Office of the Judiciary where she provided in-depth research and support for distinguished Judges on a wide array of legal matters. We are proud to welcome these associates to the firm and look forward to the valuable contribution they will bring to our team.  

McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes is delighted to announce that our Senior Partner, John F. Wilson, K.C., has been ranked in the top tier of Chambers,Chambers High Net Worth, The Legal 500, and IFLR1000 - four of the world’s most prestigious legal directories. This unparalleled achievement makes John one of the only attorneys in The Bahamas to reach this remarkable milestone. Chambers and Partners, a world-renowned legal directory, ranks leading law firms and lawyers in over 180 jurisdictions. This year, John earned a Global Guide ‘Band 1" ranking in General Business Law: Dispute Resolution and a High Net Worth Guide ‘Band 1’ ranking in Offshore: Trusts, recognizing his exceptional expertise in these areas. ‘The Legal 500, a trusted legal industry benchmarking organisation, named John a ‘Leading Partner’ in the Caribbean and most recently, the IFLR1000, the definitive guide to the world's top financial and corporate law firms and lawyers, bestowed upon John the prestigious award of ‘Highly Regarded Lawyer." As a highly accomplished commercial litigator, John is celebrated for his problem-solving acumen and ability to advocate effectively for his clients. A distinguished King's Counsel at the Bahamian Bar, John's advice is sought by institutional trustees, high-net-worth individuals, and investors across diverse sectors. ‘The partners, associates, and consultants of McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes congratulate John on this remarkable achievement and commend his ongoing dedication to upholding the firm's legacy of excellence.  

It is with great pleasure that we announce the promotion of our own Andrew C. D. Smith to Senior Associate. In addition to this role, Andrew has relocated to the firm’s Freeport office to support MB&H’s practice in the Northern Region of The Bahamas. Andrew joined the firm in 2018 and specialises in Tax, financial services, and dispute resolution. His experience makes him an authority on issues relating to the Commercial Entities (Substance Requirements) Act and the Value Added Tax Act. "We are very fortunate to have such a wealth of talent and commitment within the firm and I congratulate Andrew for his dedication and professionalism. I have no doubt he will flourish in his new role." - Senior Partner John F. Wilson KC  

MBH’s Private Client team has achieved a record number of rankings in the newly released Chambers High Net Worth Guide, the publication for go-to individuals and firms in the private wealth sector.` Retaining our Band 1 listing as a firm we have also won a record number of individual lawyer rankings this year, demonstrating our Private Client team’s genuine strength in depth. The Chambers High Net Worth Guide provides an in-depth analysis of the market and ranks the top lawyers and law firms for international private wealth. The guide is used by family offices and professional advisers to high net worth and ultra-high net worth clients around the world. The rankings are based on independent research including interviews with lawyers, family offices, tax advisers, accountants, investment managers and bankers for a comprehensive view of the private wealth sector. Senior Partner John F. Wilson KC and Partner Sean Moree KC both maintain their Band 1 individual rankings. Partner Vanessa Smith retains her “Up and Coming” ranking status whilst Senior Associate Erin Hill is once again ranked as an “Associate to Watch”. Special congratulations are due to Partner Michelle Deveaux who enters the rankings for the first time this year, winning an “Up and Coming” ranking spot. For more information, visit Chambers.com and the Chambers HNW rankings. Client Feedback published in Chambers High Net Worth About the team: "Not only are the partners some of the best in their field, but their associates and other professionals are highly-skilled, trained and effective." About John F. Wilson KC: “"John is an incredibly experienced trust law practitioner and has a wealth of knowledge of the laws in Bahamas. He also has a great instinct for Bahamian courts, so you get real expert insights." About Sean More KC: "Sean is a phenomenal lawyer - extremely knowledgeable and goes over and above what is needed. I rate him 10/10." About Vanessa Smith: "Vanessa offers critical insights and excellent advocacy skills." About Michelle Deveaux: "Michelle is a lawyer that is a rising star. She has great instincts and provides great advice." About Erin Hill: "Practical, thoughtful and manages the case diligently and efficiently, Erin always knows what's going on."