Canada’s justice minister and the Canadian Bar Association announced a national series of judicial symposia on October 22. The first event is scheduled for November 20 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, during the association’s branch conference, with additional sessions expected in other Canadian regions in 2027.

The program is designed to explain the federal appointment process, the role of an independent judiciary and the practical responsibilities of judicial service. Organizers say the events will encourage accomplished lawyers from different communities, practice areas and professional backgrounds to consider applying for the bench.

Federal appointments cover the federal courts, provincial and territorial superior courts and the Supreme Court of Canada. Independent, non-partisan Judicial Advisory Committees assess applicants and send recommendations to the justice minister. The symposium series provides information and outreach; it does not replace those committees or change their evaluation role.

The government describes this as its first national Judicial Symposium tour. Registration has opened for the Halifax event, but the remaining cities and dates have not yet been published. The announcement therefore establishes the series and its first stop rather than reporting new appointments or a revision to judicial-selection standards.