Chief Justice of Canada facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chief Justice of Canada |
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|---|---|
| Supreme Court of Canada Office of the Chief Justice Judiciary of Canada (Queen-on-the-Bench) |
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| Style | The Right Honourable Madam/Mister Chief Justice |
| Member of | Supreme Court< Canadian Judicial Council (Ex-officio chairman) Order of Canada advisory council (chairman) |
| Seat | Supreme Court Building, Ottawa, Ontario |
| Nominator | Cabinet |
| Appointer | Governor General of Canada |
| Term length | No set term, though retirement is mandatory at age 75 |
| Constituting instrument | Supreme Court Act |
| Inaugural holder | Sir William Buell Richards |
| Formation | September 30, 1875 |
| Salary | $413,500 (as of April 2018) |
| Website | Supreme Court |
The Chief Justice of Canada (French: Juge en Chef du Canada) is the most important judge in Canada. This person leads the nine judges of the Supreme Court of Canada. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the country. It makes sure that laws are fair and applied correctly for everyone.
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What is the Chief Justice's Role?
The Chief Justice has many important jobs. They lead the Supreme Court of Canada and make sure it runs smoothly. They also help decide which cases the court will hear.
Leading the Supreme Court
The Chief Justice is like the captain of a team. They guide discussions among the other eight judges. They also speak for the court on important matters. This role helps keep Canada's legal system strong and fair.
Other Important Duties
The Chief Justice has duties outside the court too. They are the head of the Canadian Judicial Council. This group helps make sure all judges in Canada do their jobs well. The Chief Justice also helps decide who gets the Order of Canada, a high honour.
Sometimes, the Chief Justice can even act as the Governor General of Canada. This happens if the Governor General is away or cannot do their job. It shows how important the Chief Justice is to Canada.
How is the Chief Justice Chosen?
Becoming the Chief Justice is a very special process. First, the Cabinet of Canada (a group of top government ministers) chooses a judge. Then, the Governor General of Canada officially appoints them.
Term and Retirement
There is no set time limit for how long a Chief Justice can serve. However, they must retire when they turn 75 years old. This rule helps bring new ideas and people into the court over time. The first Chief Justice was Sir William Buell Richards, appointed in 1875.
Who are the Chief Justices of Canada?
Since the Supreme Court started in 1875, 18 people have served as Chief Justice. These judges have come from different parts of Canada. They have all played a big part in shaping Canada's laws.
- The first Chief Justice was Sir William Buell Richards from Ontario. He started in 1875.
- The current Chief Justice is Richard Wagner from Quebec. He became Chief Justice in December 2017.
- In 2000, Beverley McLachlin became the first woman to be Chief Justice. She served for 17 years, longer than anyone else.
Images for kids
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The Honourable Richard Wagner, the current Chief Justice of Canada.
See also
- Supreme Court of Canada
- Court system of Canada
- In Spanish: Presidente de la Corte Suprema de Canadá para niños
