Canada’s leaders must invest in justice
Asking federal election candidates to commit to funding for effective courts
This federal election, the Canadian Bar Association asks all parties to ensure our courts have the resources they need to uphold justice.
Across Canada, court delays are keeping people from accessing the justice they deserve.
Court backlogs, delayed trials and rising legal costs leave people and communities waiting too long for justice. Families are in legal limbo and businesses are unable to resolve disputes.
We are familiar with these concerns in British Columbia. Lawyers in B.C. know that inefficient court processes can increase legal costs and worsen stress for the parties involved. There is a critical need for up-to-date technology to access legal services in remote and rural areas.
B.C. needs enough Supreme Court judges to hear cases and resolve disputes promptly. Otherwise, unreasonable court delays impact family and business decisions, and stalled cases against accused criminal offenders can get thrown out.
Delayed justice leads to stress, financial strain and uncertainty at a time when clarity and fairness are needed most. Ultimately, an underfunded justice system cannot serve its purpose and reduces the public’s trust in Canada’s legal institutions.
Together, we can make sure that justice institutions work for people by using our collective voice to advocate for court funding.
In the lead up to the April 28 vote, the CBA asks federal election candidates to commit to investing in legal systems that deliver timely decisions and fair outcomes. Candidates must assure Canadians that their country protects their rights and freedoms.
As the voice of 40,000 lawyers, judges, notaries, law teachers and law students from across Canada, the CBA calls on the government to:
Guarantee stable and sufficient court funding
Sufficient resources for judges, staff and technology reduce delays and lead to faster case resolutions.
Invest in court technology
Technology can help people access and navigate the legal system, regardless of distance and time. Modernization initiatives cut costs and reduce delays.
Fill judicial vacancies without delay
Filling these positions ensures cases are handled efficiently and builds public confidence.
Strengthen legal aid funding
Increased legal aid funding ensures that Canadians have access to fair legal representation, regardless of income.
Ensure sufficient funding for translation in the Federal Courts
Sufficient funding to meet requirements under the Official Languages Act reduces translation and revision delays and upholds public trust in the efficiency of the judicial process.
A nation’s sovereignty depends on strong institutions that serve the common good. It relies on a legal system that protects rights and freedoms, ensures fair and impartial justice and holds power to account.
Lawyers in B.C. can make a difference. Ask candidates to invest in justice by reading and sharing the letter the CBA sent to party leaders and joining the conversation on social media.
