News release

New Chief Judge Appointed for Provincial, Family Courts

Justice

Judge Pamela Williams is the new Chief Judge of the Nova Scotia Provincial and Family Courts.

Judge Williams was called to the bar in 1985. She spent 18 years as a lawyer with Nova Scotia Legal Aid, and was appointed as a Provincial Court judge in 2003.

She became Associate Chief Judge of the Provincial Court in 2011.

The Chief Judge schedules court sittings, assigns judicial duties and is responsible for the administration of the judicial functions of the Provincial and Family Courts. She also hears cases.

"The provincial and family courts are a key part of the administration of justice in Nova Scotia. Judge Williams has the knowledge, the skills and the wisdom to be an exceptional Chief Judge, and I congratulate her on her new role," said Mr. Landry.

Outgoing Chief Judge Curran has held this position since 2003. His term ended Jan. 31, but he has continued in the role until his successor was appointed. He will continue full-time as a judge of the provincial and family courts.

"I'd like to thank Chief Judge Curran for his passion and commitment to the administration of justice," said Mr. Landry. "I am pleased that our justice system will continue to benefit from his experience."

Cabinet chooses Chief Judges based on the Justice Minister's recommendation. The family and provincial court recruitment committee provides a list of candidates. The committee is chaired by the Chief Justice of Nova Scotia, and consists of the outgoing Chief Judge, a lay person designated by the minister, and the president of the Provincial Judges' Association.

The provincial court hears offences under the Criminal Code of Canada, other federal acts and regulations, and summary offences under provincial law. The Family Court handles family issues, including maintenance, custody and access, and child protection cases.