About the Canadian Judicial Council

The Canadian Judicial Council (CJC) was created in 1971 by the Canadian Parliament to maintain and improve the quality of judicial services in Canada's superior courts. In a constantly changing world, the CJC gives Canadians a judicial system based on modern practices, in keeping with the values of our society.

Our mission

The Council assures Canadians that judges reflect their values and way of life. It is devoted to help them evolve with Canadians by developing tools that will help them preserve and protect public confidence in the judicial system.

Our mandate

To ensure that Canadians have access to effective, consistent and fair judicial services, we have been working since 1971 to improve their quality. Day after day, these services are provided by more than 1100 federally appointed judges.

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Who we are

The Council has 44 members. It is chaired by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, the Right Honourable Richard Wagner. The Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices of the Canadian superior courts represent the Council.

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Guiding principles

We recognize the important role judges play within society, and as such, we are committed to the principles which guide the work we do, the decisions we make and the way we work together. See how our Principles for collaboration provide guidance on how Council members can best work together to successfully deliver on our mandate and core purpose.

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Message from the Chief

Under the chairmanship of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, the Right Honourable Richard Wagner, federally nominated Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices of Canadian superior courts make up the Council and work together to improve the Canadian justice system.

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