Tribunal to Weigh Pay of Nova Scotia’s Provincial and Family Court Judges
In a significant step toward ensuring judicial fairness and transparency, a tribunal in Nova Scotia is set to review the compensation of Provincial and Family Court judges. The public hearing, scheduled for September 29, 2025, will assess salaries, benefits, and pension contributions for judges, including chief and associate chief judges.
This review is part of a regular process mandated by the Provincial Court Act. The tribunal’s recommendations will set compensation levels from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2029. Hearings will take place at Summit Place in Halifax, marking a crucial moment in Nova Scotia’s judicial system.
The tribunal’s decision-making process is guided by specific criteria outlined in section 21E(3) of the Provincial Court Act. These include preserving judicial independence, reflecting market conditions, considering the province’s economic situation, and comparing salaries with other jurisdictions.
For the first time, the public is invited to share their views. The Department of Justice, through the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, has called for written submissions by August 29, 2025. These can be mailed or emailed directly to the tribunal, offering a unique opportunity for public input on judicial compensation.
Current salary figures highlight the need for this review. As of April 1, 2025, a Provincial Court judge in Nova Scotia earns $331,920 annually, while the Chief Judge receives $358,473.60. These amounts are notably lower than those for judges in superior courts, such as the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal or Supreme Court, who earn $338,800, with their chief judges receiving $371,400.
Historically, judicial pay in Nova Scotia has been a point of contention. In 2017, an independent tribunal recommended a 9.5% salary increase over three years, along with improved benefits. However, the provincial government only implemented a 1% increase in the final year, sparking a legal dispute. In 2022, the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia ruled that the government had failed to provide “rational and legitimate reasons” for disregarding the tribunal’s proposal, emphasizing the importance of shielding judicial pay from political influence.
The upcoming review offers a chance to address these disparities and ensure fair compensation for Provincial and Family Court judges. By considering public feedback and adhering to established criteria, the tribunal aims to strike a balance between judicial independence, economic realities, and regional comparisons. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for Nova Scotia’s judiciary and the broader legal community.
Tribunal Mandate and Process
The tribunal responsible for assessing the compensation of Provincial and Family Court judges operates under Nova Scotia’s Provincial Court Act. This body is tasked with conducting a thorough review to determine appropriate salaries, per diems, pension contributions, and other benefits for judges. The hearings will take place at Summit Place in Halifax, ensuring accessibility and transparency for all stakeholders.
The tribunal’s recommendations will be effective from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2029, guiding the compensation framework for the next three years. The decision-making process is governed by specific criteria outlined in section 21E(3) of the Provincial Court Act. These criteria include preserving judicial independence, reflecting current market conditions, considering Nova Scotia’s economic situation, and benchmarking against judicial salaries in other jurisdictions.
To facilitate public engagement, the Department of Justice, in collaboration with the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, has invited written submissions from interested individuals and organizations. These submissions must be received by August 29, 2025, and can be sent via mail or email directly to the tribunal. This opportunity allows the public to contribute their perspectives on judicial compensation, enhancing the review process’s inclusivity and representativeness.
Additional documentation, including the tribunal’s previous reports and a detailed summary of current judges’ salaries and benefits, is available on the Nova Scotia Department of Justice’s publications page. This resource provides transparency and ensures that all stakeholders have access to the information necessary to participate meaningfully in the review process.
Conclusion
The tribunal plays a crucial role in ensuring fair and equitable compensation for Provincial and Family Court judges in Nova Scotia. By adhering to a transparent and inclusive process, the tribunal upholds judicial independence and considers economic and market factors. Public participation through submissions enhances the review process, making it representative and inclusive. The recommendations, effective from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2029, will guide the compensation framework for the next three years, ensuring judicial independence and fairness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the tribunal?
The tribunal assesses and recommends compensation for Provincial and Family Court judges, ensuring fairness and equity.
What criteria does the tribunal use?
The tribunal considers judicial independence, market conditions, Nova Scotia’s economy, and benchmarking with other jurisdictions.
How can the public contribute to the tribunal’s review?
Submit written submissions by August 29, 2025, via mail or email to the tribunal.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the Nova Scotia Department of Justice’s publications page for reports, salary summaries, and other documents.
When will the tribunal’s recommendations take effect?
Recommendations are effective from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2029.
