Dec 11, 2023
Dear Chief Justice Marchand,
On behalf of the Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on your historic appointment as the Chief Justice of British Columbia and Chief Justice of the Court of Appeal of Yukon.
This moment marks a significant milestone for you and your family, for the legal community, and for Canadian history. Your appointment inspires Indigenous people along with racialized people like me. Your experience serving on all three courts in the province, along with your leadership in advancing reconciliation and access to justice will be a valuable addition to the leadership of our judiciary.
Many in the profession speak of your intelligence, exceptional judgment and approachability. This too was my experience when I had the pleasure of arguing a case before you in 2018. I’ve reflected often on the thoughtfulness you showed to counsel and how the parties and witnesses were treated with empathy and warmth. Your leadership and your approach will contribute immensely to the administration of justice in B.C.
Unfortunately, our legal institutions are too frequently under unjustified atack. Your appointment is celebrated by the profession and will inspire continued confidence in the judicial branch.
Once again, congratulations and best wishes for your continued success.
Sincerely,
Scott Morishita
CBABC President 2023/24
Dec 21, 2023
Dear Mr. Morishita,
Thank you for so warmly welcoming me to my new role. It will be an enormous challenge and an honour to serve the public as Chief Justice of the province.
As you know, the judiciary relies on members of the bar to speak out in defence of judges where the public’s confidence in the justice system may be at risk. The Canadian Bar Association BC Branch has shown valuable leadership in this area on matters where judges themselves need to remain silent. Your generous words of support are much appreciated, and I look forward to my interactions with the CBABC in the coming years.
Happy holidays and all the best to you and your colleagues for a fruitful 2024.
Sincerely,
Leonard S. Marchand
Chief Justice