The Life and Legacy of Justice Gérard La Forest
Canada’s legal community is mourning the loss of a judicial giant. Justice Gérard La Forest, a former Supreme Court of Canada justice, passed away on June 12, 2025, at the age of 99. His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes, celebrating a life dedicated to law, public service, and the pursuit of justice.
La Forest’s journey from a small town in New Brunswick to the nation’s highest court is a testament to his intellect, humility, and unwavering commitment to the legal profession. Born on April 1, 1926, in Grand Falls, New Brunswick, he grew up in a family that valued education and public service. These values would shape his remarkable career.
La Forest’s academic prowess was evident early on. He studied at St. Francis Xavier University before earning his Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL) from the University of New Brunswick in 1949. That same year, he was called to the bar in New Brunswick, marking the beginning of a storied legal career.
His intellectual curiosity and achievements earned him a prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford University. At St John’s College, Oxford, he earned a BA in 1951 and an MA in 1956. He furthered his studies at Yale University, completing an LL.M. in 1965 and a J.S.D. in 1966. These accomplishments solidified his reputation as a legal scholar of international standing.
La Forest’s career was a blend of academia, government service, and judiciary. He taught law at the University of New Brunswick and later served as Dean of Law at the University of Alberta. His contributions to legal education and reform were instrumental in shaping the next generation of lawyers and policymakers.
In 1985, Prime Minister Brian Mulroney appointed La Forest to the Supreme Court of Canada. Over his 12-year tenure, he became known for his thoughtful decisions on constitutional law, privacy rights, and environmental law. His judgments reflected a deep respect for federalism, individual liberties, and judicial restraint.
After retiring from the Supreme Court in 1997, La Forest continued to contribute to the legal community. He worked as counsel at Stewart McKelvey in Fredericton, New Brunswick, and remained a respected voice in Canadian law. His legacy was formally recognized in 2000 when he was appointed a Companion of the Order of Canada, one of the nation’s highest honors.
Justice Gérard La Forest’s passing leaves a void in the legal community. Yet his impact endures through his groundbreaking rulings, his contributions to legal education, and his unwavering dedication to justice. He will be remembered as a humble, wise, and principled leader who shaped the Canadian legal landscape.
Read more about Justice La Forest’s life, career, and enduring legacy in the following sections.
Early Career and Academic Contributions
Before ascending to the nation’s highest court, Justice Gérard La Forest established himself as a distinguished legal scholar and public servant. His early career was marked by a blend of private practice, government service, and academia, laying the foundation for his future impact on Canadian law.
La Forest began his legal career in private practice and later served as a legal advisor for a private corporation. In 1952, he joined the federal Department of Justice, where he worked until 1955. This period in government service provided him with invaluable insights into the practical application of law and policy, which he would later draw upon in his academic and judicial roles.
In 1956, La Forest embarked on an influential academic career, teaching law at the University of New Brunswick. His teaching tenure spanned 12 years, during which he became known for his intellectual rigor and ability to inspire students. His contributions to legal education were further recognized when he was appointed Dean of Law at the University of Alberta, a position he held from 1968 to 1970.
La Forest’s commitment to legal reform and scholarship led him to serve as a member of the Law Reform Commission of Canada for five years. His work with the commission focused on advancing legal reforms that reflected the evolving needs of Canadian society. Additionally, he taught at the University of Ottawa for two years before being appointed to the New Brunswick Court of Appeal in 1981.
His time on the New Brunswick Court of Appeal marked a significant phase in his judicial career. La Forest’s decisions during this period demonstrated his deep understanding of the law and his ability to balance legal principles with practical realities. This experience prepared him for his eventual appointment to the Supreme Court of Canada in 1985.
Throughout his career, Justice La Forest was known for his dedication to mentorship and the development of future legal professionals. His legacy extends beyond his courtroom decisions to the countless students and lawyers he influenced through his teaching and writing.
Conclusion
Justice Gérard La Forest’s journey from a distinguished legal scholar to a revered judge on the Supreme Court of Canada exemplifies a life dedicated to the advancement of law and education. His early career, marked by a blend of private practice, government service, and academia, laid the groundwork for his profound impact on Canadian jurisprudence. Through his teachings, mentorship, and judicial decisions, La Forest left an indelible mark on the legal landscape, inspiring future generations of legal professionals. His commitment to legal reform and scholarship continues to influence Canadian law, ensuring his legacy endures as a cornerstone of the nation’s judicial history.
FAQ
What were Justice Gérard La Forest’s early career highlights?
Justice La Forest began his legal career in private practice and later served as a legal advisor for a private corporation. He then joined the federal Department of Justice from 1952 to 1955, gaining valuable insights into law and policy application.
How did Justice La Forest contribute to legal education?
La Forest taught law at the University of New Brunswick for 12 years, becoming known for his intellectual rigor and inspirational teaching style. He later served as Dean of Law at the University of Alberta from 1968 to 1970.
What notable roles did Justice La Forest hold before his Supreme Court appointment?
Before joining the Supreme Court, La Forest was a member of the Law Reform Commission of Canada for five years and served on the New Brunswick Court of Appeal starting in 1981.
What is Justice La Forest known for beyond his judicial decisions?
La Forest was dedicated to mentorship, influencing countless students and lawyers through his teaching and writings, leaving a legacy beyond his courtroom decisions.
When was Justice Gérard La Forest appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada?
Justice La Forest was appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada in 1985, following his notable service on the New Brunswick Court of Appeal.
