William Anglin Scarlett

Sir William Anglin Scarlett (1777 –1831) was Chief Justice of Jamaica known for his love of justice.

Early life Scarlett was the son of Robert Scarlett who owned property in Jamaica. His elder brother, James, was to become Attorney General. He was educated in Edinburgh and at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he graduated Bachelor of Arts in 1802.

Career Scarlett became Chief Justice of Jamaica in 1821. In 1823, Scarlett presided over the trial of a man on a charge of libel brought by the Duke of Manchester, the Governor of Jamaica. The man was acquitted, but even as a Chief Justice, Scarlett was abused as he left the court.

Scarlett released them, but it took Parliament to uphold his decision. Scarlett was knighted in 1829.

Personal life In 1809, Scarlett married Mary Williams of Luana estate in St. Elizabeth. He had two sons, Robert William and James Williams Scarlett.

Death Scarlett died in 1831. His obituary noted that he had been ill and that even his detractors noted his "love of justice". His wife died the following year.