HSM LAW
HSM Tribute to Oscar DaCosta
It is with deep sadness that we mark the passing of our much‑loved colleague and friend, Oscar DaCosta, who died this weekend past following a courageous battle with brain cancer. Oscar obtained an LLB (Hons) Degree from the University of Read more +
The ‘X Trusts’ Case – The Privy Council Confirms Protectors May Have a Substantive Fiduciary Role
On 19 March 2026, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council delivered its judgment in A and Ors (Appellants) v C and others (Respondents) [2026] UKPC 11, overturning the Bermuda Court of Appeal and holding that the protectors of the Read more +
Cayman Immigration Law Changes Will Take Effect on 1 May 2026
On Friday, 27 March 2026, the Government announced that the “Immigration Law changes will take effect on Friday, 1 May 2026”. It appears that the Act which was passed in December 2025 and amended, prior to coming into force on Read more +
Cayman Islands Immigration Update – March 2026: Work Permit Stats and PR Factor 8 Clarity
The latest work permit statistics released by Workforce Opportunities & Residency Cayman (WORC) show that there are currently 37,075 work permits in place as of 11 March 2026. This represents a small decrease from February 2026, when 37,267 work permits Read more +
HSM Tribute to Oscar DaCosta
It is with deep sadness that we mark the passing of our much‑loved colleague and friend, Oscar DaCosta, who died this weekend past following a courageous battle with brain cancer.
Oscar obtained an LLB (Hons) Degree from the University of Liverpool (Truman Bodden Law School) in 2014 and also received a Commendation in the Professional Practice Course in 2017. Oscar was also an Accredited Civil and Commercial Mediator by the ADR Group – Civil Mediation Council (CMC) in London. Oscar joined HSM Chambers in March 2020 and we were proud to subsequently move his admission as a Cayman Attorney specializing in Property related matters and he later also served the firm with distinction as its Compliance Officer. Throughout his time with us, he exemplified professionalism, integrity, and quiet determination. He approached his work with care and precision, but it was his kindness, humility, and unfailing courtesy that left the most lasting impression on those around him. Oscar was a trusted adviser to clients and colleagues alike. He brought clarity to complex matters, calm to challenging situations, and an unwavering sense of responsibility to everything he undertook. His contribution to HSM Chambers extended well beyond his technical expertise.
Beyond his professional life, Oscar’s compassion and commitment to helping others shone brightly. Together with his wife, Melissa, he co‑founded The Grey Area, a Cayman‑registered charity dedicated to supporting and raising awareness around brain health and brain cancer. In the face of profound personal adversity, Oscar chose to create something hopeful and purposeful—an enduring legacy that will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Oscar faced his illness with remarkable courage and dignity. Even during the most difficult periods, he remained thoughtful of others and deeply grateful for the support and kindness shown to him. His strength, grace, and generosity of spirit were an inspiration to all who knew him.
On behalf of everyone at HSM Chambers, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Melissa, his family, and the many friends whose lives he touched. He will be remembered not only as a dedicated lawyer and compliance professional, but as a genuinely decent and compassionate man. Oscar’s legacy lives on—in his work, in The Grey Area, and in the many people who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Huw St.J. Moses OBE
Managing Partner, HSM Chambers
Oscar DaCosta