British-based financial crime expert Stephen Hellman has been appointed Bermuda’s newest Puisne Judge.Mr Hellman, currently based in London, has a background in offshore civil and commercial litigation, particularly in money laundering and compliance issues.A Government statement says his main area of practice has been in criminal law, with a recent emphasis on asset confiscation and financial crime.Following consultation with Chief Justice Ian Kawaley, Governor George Fergusson appointed him to the Island’s Supreme Court as a Puisne Judge for five years from September 4 this year.Mr Fergusson stated: “I was pleased to approve the appointment of Mr Stephen Hellman to the Bermuda Bench upon the recommendation of the Chief Justice.“Mr Hellman will bring with him an unusual blend of in-depth criminal law experience and a sound understanding of offshore commercial legal culture.”Mr Hellman practised offshore in commercial law firms in Guernsey and Cayman for eight years.According to the website for his current firm, the Chambers of Andrew Mitchell, highlights of his career include being sole prosecutor in a $21 million foreign exchange trading fraud.He was Called to the Bar of England and Wales in 1988 and is a member of the Inner Temple, serving on the England & Wales Bar Standards Board’s Professional Conduct Committee for the past three years.