After a controversial change to the judicial appointment process by the Houston government, the Advocates’ Society is calling for a reversal in the decision, citing concerns of political interference.

The Houston government announced changes to the committee on judicial appointments, giving an overwhelming level of discretion to the Minister of Justice. The decision was made on January 14, 2022 and came into effect immediately – without any consultation with stakeholders in the legal profession.

“Time and time again, we see the Houston government making consequential decisions without any consultation,” says Liberal Leader Iain Rankin. “Giving this level of authority to Houston’s Minister of Justice is a complete overreach and a violation of judicial independence.”

If the rules are not suspended, the judiciary will not be independent of the government – exposing the judicial appointment process to political bias.

Nova Scotians have a right to a fair and impartial justice system. Under the Houston government’s new rules, the integrity of that right is compromised.