Shannon Smallwood facts for kids

Shannon H. Smallwood is a very important judge in Canada's North. She is the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories. This means she is the main judge in charge of that court.

Shannon Smallwood became a judge on this court in 2012. She is also a member of the Dene First Nations group. This is a group of Indigenous people who have lived in Canada for a very long time.

On September 23, 2022, the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, chose her to be the Chief Justice. She officially started this big job on September 22, 2022.

What Does a Chief Justice Do?

A Chief Justice is like the leader of a court. They are the most senior judge. Their job is to make sure the court runs smoothly and fairly. They also hear important cases, just like other judges.

The Role of a Chief Justice

The Chief Justice helps guide the other judges. They also represent the court. It's a very responsible position that helps make sure justice is served for everyone.

The Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories

The Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories is a high court in Canada's northern region. It deals with many different kinds of legal cases. These can include serious criminal cases and important civil cases. Civil cases are about disagreements between people or groups.

Why is This Court Important?

This court is very important for the people living in the Northwest Territories. It helps to make sure laws are followed and that people's rights are protected. It plays a key role in keeping communities safe and fair.

Shannon Smallwood's Background

Shannon Smallwood is a member of the Dene First Nations. The Dene people are one of the many Indigenous groups in Canada. They have a rich history and culture. Being a Dene woman and a Chief Justice is a significant achievement. It shows the importance of diverse voices in Canada's justice system.

Her Path to Becoming a Judge

Before becoming a judge, Shannon Smallwood worked as a lawyer. Lawyers help people with legal problems. She gained a lot of experience in the law. This experience helped her prepare for her important role on the court.

Her Appointment as Chief Justice

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appointed Shannon Smallwood as Chief Justice. This means he officially chose her for the job. This appointment is a big deal in the legal world. It shows trust in her skills and leadership.

When Did She Start Her New Role?

She was appointed on September 23, 2022. Her new role as Chief Justice began just one day earlier, on September 22, 2022. This was an important moment for the justice system in the Northwest Territories.