North American Bar CouncilA professional home for common-law lawyers.

Canada

Canadian Bar Association (CBA)

Last reviewed: 28 September 2026 · Provisional NABC editorial review

Summary

A consistent defender of judicial independence and of an independent bar. Intervened in the BC Legal Professions Act case and pushed back against politicisation of judicial appointments.

Leadership in period: Bianca Kratt, K.C., served as President for 2025–2026. The CBA represents more than 40,000 lawyers, judges, notaries, academics, and students.

Key developments

  • Urged the Prime Minister to resist politicisation of judicial appointments.
  • Condemned commentary portrayed as undermining public confidence in an Ontario judge.
  • Intervened in the British Columbia legal-professions case and continued advocacy for an independent bar.

Criterion ratings

Rule of Law and Judicial Independence

Strong

Access to Justice

Moderate

Governance and Transparency

Strong

Professional Standards and Education

Strong

Diversity and Inclusion

Moderate

Assessment

The CBA was among the most consistent voices this year on judicial independence and the independence of the bar, including its litigation role in British Columbia.

Key sources