Deborah Smith has been appointed as chief justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, only the second time a woman has held that position.
Smith, who has been associate chief justice since 2004, takes over from Joseph Kennedy, who retired as Supreme Court chief justice in April.
“Throughout her time on the Supreme Court, Chief Justice Smith has demonstrated her passion and commitment to improving the administration of justice,” said Nova Scotia Chief Justice Michael Wood in a news release.
“As well, she has been recognized nationally as a leader in judicial education and training, helping to ensure Canadian judges are in touch with the society in which they judge.”
Constance R. Glube was the first female chief justice of the Nova Scotia Supreme Court.
Chief justices and associate chief justices in Canada are responsible for the leadership and administration of their courts.
In other judicial appointments, Carole Beaton has been named to the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal and Samuel Moreau is now a justice with the Supreme Court (family division).