Governance: The Board formally approved the revised document outlining the Role of the Executive Officers of the CSCJA, which clarified internal roles and liaison responsibilities. Separately, Directors were reminded that Board Evaluation Surveys would be distributed soon to gather feedback for internal benchmarking and future strategic planning.
Judicial conduct review: The Judicial Conduct Review Committee continues to work on providing consistent information to judges, ensuring they are aware of the availability of legal counsel early in any complaint process. Additionally, they continue liaison work with the Canadian Judicial Council and the Department of Justice concerning the conduct process, and the procedures and bylaws related to conduct.
2026 proposed budget: Treasurer Justice Katherine O’Brien presented the proposed budget for 2026, which the Board formally adopted. Key changes included accommodating an increase in the estimated non-reimbursable Quadrennial Commission expenses for the next cycle, and new projects and initiatives. To offset budget pressures, cost efficiencies were approved around further digitization of services and administration.
Annual technology program: The Technology Committee has begun planning for the 2026 technology program, “Judging in the Digital Age.” It will take place in Edmonton, Alberta, from June 24 to 26, 2026, and will have a substantial focus on artificial intelligence. Registration will open in early April.
The program will coincide with the Annual General Meeting on June 25. Members will also have the option to participate via Zoom.
Public education: The Public Education & Access to Justice Committee reported significant recent success in its social media engagement, noting that the LinkedIn follower count has more than quadrupled since May. Outreach efforts, including Law Day 2026, will prioritize communications focusing on judicial independence.
If you are interested in volunteering to host an in-person or virtual Law Day Talk with a high school class in 2026, mark your calendars for April 13 to 24, 2026, and watch for the call for volunteers coming soon.
