Supreme Court Canada appointment process begins to replace Justice Martin
OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney has launched the formal process to appoint the next judge to the Supreme Court of Canada, following the upcoming retirement of Justice Sheilah L. Martin.
Applications from qualified candidates will be accepted until April 27, 2026, as part of a selection process designed to identify jurists of the highest calibre to serve on Canada’s top court.
Justice Martin, who has served on the Supreme Court since 2017, is set to retire effective May 30, 2026.
Independent advisory board to lead candidate review
The selection process will be guided by a non-partisan Independent Advisory Board for Supreme Court of Canada Judicial Appointments. The board will review applications and submit a shortlist of candidates to the Prime Minister.
Candidates must meet strict criteria, including functional bilingualism and a demonstrated commitment to Canada’s legal traditions, diversity, and judicial independence.
The federal government confirmed the process will be open to applicants from Western Canada and Northern Canada, in keeping with the Supreme Court’s longstanding convention of regional representation.
Focus on experience, diversity, and legal excellence
Applicants must meet the statutory requirements outlined in the Supreme Court Act, including having served as a judge of a superior court or being a member in good standing of a provincial or territorial bar for at least 10 years.
The court consists of nine judges, including the chief justice, all appointed by the Governor in Council.
Officials say the selection process is designed to ensure the court reflects Canada’s legal expertise, regional diversity, and commitment to the rule of law.
Prime Minister highlights importance of the court
In announcing the process, Prime Minister Carney emphasized the central role the Supreme Court plays in Canada’s democracy.
“The Supreme Court of Canada is a pillar of our democracy. As Canada’s highest judicial body, the court – and the judges who serve on it – carry profound responsibilities and the values of integrity, independence, and the rule of law.”
Transition underway as Justice Martin prepares to retire
Justice Martin previously served on the Court of Appeal of Alberta, as well as appellate courts in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, before her appointment to the Supreme Court in 2017.
The federal government has not yet announced the members of the advisory board, but said details will be released in the coming weeks.
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