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Prime Minister announces appointment of new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia

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The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Deborah K. Smith, Associate Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia.

She replaces the Honourable Joseph P. Kennedy, who retired on April 30, 2019, after more than 41 years of distinguished service as a judge.

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“I am happy to announce the appointment of the Honourable Deborah K. Smith as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia. Chief Justice Smith brings over 17 years of experience practising law in Halifax and, more recently, over 18 years of service as a judge on the province’s Supreme Court. I am confident she will serve Nova Scotians well in her new role.”

The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick Facts

  • Chief Justices in Canada are responsible for the leadership and administration of their courts. They also serve as members of the Canadian Judicial Council, which works to improve the quality of judicial service in the superior courts of Canada.
  • Chief Justices are appointed by the Governor General, on the advice of Cabinet and on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.

Biographical Notes