Our Goals
- To advance and improve the law and administration of justice
- To improve and promote access to justice
Our goals are those of CBA-Nova Scotia. We help the branch achieve these goals by establishing ongoing and timely notice of government initiated legislation and law reform projects. We also make it easier for our members to make their voices heard.
Our Objectives
Our objective is to assist the branch in achieving its own objectives, which include:
- Promoting law reform and the advancement of the public interest in all matters relating to legislation and the administration of justice in the Province [Bylaw Art.5(c)]
- Providing the means of ascertaining and expressing the views of the legal profession in the province [Bylaw, Art. 5(d)]
Why Focus on Sections?
The expertise and energy that drives legislation and law reform initiatives in our branch comes from our members who bring their interest, knowledge and experience to the table.
Sections are Agile
When our members identify a need for legislative reform, they have a go-to person: the Section Chair. This individual is ideally placed to notify and solicit input from lawyers with an expressed interest in a particular area of law. Technology allows us to do this in a matter of minutes. And, when time permits, deserving issues can receive the necessary study and consultation, whether at the Section level, or by way of ad hoc Committees comprised of cross-Section membership.
For these reasons, Sections can communicate and respond as quickly as the situation demands.
Sections Represent Practice Areas, Not Interests
When a Section speaks, it does so with one voice. By way of example, the Criminal Law Section includes members from the prosecution service, the defence bar, legislators, and highly respected academics. The resulting submission is therefore considered, balanced and objective.
Branch Sections Can Exercise Their Voice Through Their National Sections
Branch Sections have ready access to expertise from across Canada. Their members can also participate in national initiatives aimed at coordinating provincial legislation. On federal matters, they can advocate for the fair treatment of Nova Scotian interests.
