Four New Judges Appointed to British Columbia Provincial Court
The British Columbia Provincial Court has announced the appointment of four new judges, further strengthening its bench with diverse experience and community-focused leadership. Ariana Ward, James Henry, Brian Dybwad, and Mylene de Guzman will join the court, bringing a wealth of legal expertise and a deep commitment to justice.
These appointments reflect the province’s dedication to ensuring representation and access to justice within the court system. Each of the new judges comes with a unique background, ranging from Indigenous reconciliation to family law advocacy, promising to enrich the court’s decision-making process.
Judge Ariana Ward: A Veteran Prosecutor with a Focus on Indigenous Justice
Ariana Ward, with 27 years of legal experience, will be sworn in on March 28, 2025, and assigned to the Vancouver region. Her chambers will be located at Main Street. Ward has spent much of her career with the BC Prosecution Service, where she gained extensive experience in criminal law. Notably, she has been instrumental in Indigenous reconciliation efforts, serving as counsel in North Vancouver’s Indigenous sentencing court. Her expertise in this area is expected to bring a nuanced perspective to her role on the bench.
Judge James Henry: Bridging Law and Métis Heritage
James Henry will take his oath on March 21, 2025, and serve in the Fraser region, with chambers in Abbotsford. Called to the BC bar in 1996, Henry has worked as both defense counsel and Crown counsel, giving him a well-rounded understanding of the justice system. As a Métis individual, Henry has been actively involved with the Nova Métis Heritage Association, highlighting his commitment to cultural advocacy and community engagement. His dual perspective as a legal practitioner and a community leader is set to enhance the court’s ability to serve diverse populations.
Judge Brian Dybwad: Indigenous Leadership on Vancouver Island
Brian Dybwad will also be sworn in on March 21, 2025, and assigned to the Vancouver Island region, with chambers in Campbell River. A member of the Tsetaut-Gitxsan Nation, Dybwad has practiced law on north Vancouver Island since being called to the bar in 2010. His legal career has been complemented by leadership roles in various legal associations, showcasing his ability to collaborate and lead within the profession. His deep connection to Indigenous communities and his legal acumen position him to make a meaningful impact in his new role.
Judge Mylene de Guzman: A Passion for Family Law and Community Service
Mylene de Guzman will join the bench on March 28, 2025, and serve in the Fraser region, with chambers in Surrey. Born in the Philippines and immigrating to Canada, de Guzman earned her law degree in 1995 and has since focused primarily on family law. Her dedication to pro bono work and volunteering within the legal community underscores her commitment to access to justice. De Guzman’s appointment not only adds diversity to the bench but also brings a compassionate and experienced voice to family law matters.
Together, these four judges represent a significant step forward for the BC Provincial Court, blending extensive legal knowledge with a strong commitment to community and justice. Their swearing-in marks the beginning of a new chapter in the court’s efforts to serve British Columbians with fairness and integrity.
The Significance of These Appointments
The appointment of these four judges underscores British Columbia’s commitment to fostering a judiciary that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. Each judge brings not only legal expertise but also a deep understanding of the social and cultural nuances that shape the province’s legal landscape.
Judge Ariana Ward’s extensive experience in Indigenous reconciliation and her work in North Vancouver’s Indigenous sentencing court highlight her ability to navigate complex cultural and legal issues. Her presence on the bench is expected to enhance the court’s approach to Indigenous justice, ensuring that historical and contemporary realities are considered in legal decision-making.
Judge James Henry’s dual role as a legal practitioner and a Métis community advocate brings a unique perspective to the bench. His involvement with the Nova Métis Heritage Association demonstrates his commitment to preserving Métis culture and addressing the legal challenges faced by Indigenous communities. His background as both defense and Crown counsel provides a balanced understanding of the justice system, which will be invaluable in his new role.
Judge Brian Dybwad’s leadership in legal associations, combined with his practice in north Vancouver Island, positions him as a bridge between legal professionalism and community needs. As a member of the Tsetaut-Gitxsan Nation, he brings an Indigenous voice to the bench, ensuring that the legal system remains responsive to the experiences of First Nations communities.
Judge Mylene de Guzman’s dedication to family law and her extensive pro bono work reflect her commitment to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, have access to justice. Her experience as an immigrant adds a unique perspective, allowing her to empathize with the diverse populations she will serve in the Fraser region.
These appointments are a testament to the British Columbia Provincial Court’s efforts to create a bench that is not only skilled but also deeply connected to the communities it serves. The diverse backgrounds and experiences of the new judges promise to enrich the court’s ability to deliver fair and equitable justice to all British Columbians.
Conclusion
The appointment of Judges Ariana Ward, James Henry, Brian Dybwad, and Mylene de Guzman marks a significant milestone for the British Columbia Provincial Court. Each judge brings a wealth of legal expertise, diverse backgrounds, and a deep commitment to justice and community service. Their unique perspectives, ranging from Indigenous reconciliation to family law advocacy, promise to enrich the court’s ability to deliver fair and equitable justice to all British Columbians.
These appointments reflect the province’s dedication to fostering a judiciary that mirrors the diversity of the communities it serves. By combining extensive legal knowledge with a strong connection to the people, the court strengthens its capacity to address the complex legal and social issues of our time. The swearing-in of these four judges represents a new chapter in the British Columbia Provincial Court’s ongoing mission to uphold justice with integrity and compassion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many new judges were appointed to the British Columbia Provincial Court?
Four new judges—Ariana Ward, James Henry, Brian Dybwad, and Mylene de Guzman—were appointed to the British Columbia Provincial Court.
What are the areas of expertise of the newly appointed judges?
The judges bring diverse expertise: Judge Ariana Ward in Indigenous justice, Judge James Henry in both defense and Crown counsel work, Judge Brian Dybwad in Indigenous leadership and legal collaboration, and Judge Mylene de Guzman in family law and pro bono service.
Why are these appointments significant?
These appointments are significant because they reflect the court’s commitment to diversity and representation. The judges’ diverse backgrounds and experiences enhance the court’s ability to serve the community with fairness and cultural understanding.
When will the new judges be sworn in?
Judges James Henry and Brian Dybwad will be sworn in on March 21, 2025, while Judges Ariana Ward and Mylene de Guzman will be sworn in on March 28, 2025.
Where will the new judges be serving?
Judges Ariana Ward and Mylene de Guzman will serve in the Fraser region, with chambers in Surrey. Judges James Henry and Brian Dybwad will serve in the Fraser and Vancouver Island regions, respectively, with chambers in Abbotsford and Campbell River.
