About Jersey

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands, which although they are part of the British Isles are not directly controlled by the United Kingdom.

The island's significance has often far outweighed its geographical size. Jersey formed part of the Duchy of Normandy and was, along with the other Channel Islands, the possession of William the Conqueror when he invaded and conquered England in 1066. When King John lost England's continental possessions in 1204, the islands whether by intent or not were omitted from the peace treaty with the French king. Furthermore despite several attempts by the French to regain possession of the islands over the centuries, the islanders have remained loyal to the English crown. They have never been a part of England and always had independant government. However for mutual benifit over many countries the Islands have expressed loyalty and allegiance to the British Monarchy particularly during the English Civil War. 

The islanders were rewarded over the following centuries and a number of charters and privileges were granted which now gives the islands a unique constitutional position with the United Kingdom. Jersey is thus financially and politically independent of the United Kingdom and has built up an enviable reputation as an offshore jurisdiction. The Island can boast some of the best and comprehensive comercial legislation and company laws which have kept it at the forefront of international offshore services and in this context particularly in the organisation of trusts and corporate structures.

The Channel Islands are not members of the European Union and are therefore not subject to European Union rules. They do however enjoy a special relationship with the European Union through the United Kingdom's Treaty of Accession; and in a number of areas seek to harmonize domestic legislation with that of the European Union.

Each island has its own elected government with autonomy in domestic affairs including taxation.

Jersey is the most southerly of the Channel Islands and is located just some 12 miles from the North West French coast. The island is known for its natural beauty and rural charm. The island has excellent air and sea communications particularly with the United Kingdom. There are some 15 daily flights to the main London airports and regular services to Paris, Zurich and Geneva.