One hundred and three Alberta lawyers eceived the honourary title of King’s Counsel in March, including E. Roger Spady of Alliance.
The title is given in recognition of outstanding contributions to the legal community.
Spady was called to the Alberta Bar in 1976, and most recently operated his own practice in Coronation. After 48 years, he recently announced his intention to retire.
The tradition of appointing lawyers to be King’s Counsel dates back to 16th century England.
In Canada, the practice predates Confederation, with the first appointees admitted in 1841.
Individuals honoured with the title included lawyers from communities across the Province. The K.C. designation celebrates their achievements and encourages them to maintain the highest standards in their interactions with the courts and the public.
Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General says, “The King’s Counsel designation is a prized distinction within the Canadian justice system. By making positive contributions to the profession, these honourees represent the legal profession at its best.”
In Alberta, King’s Counsel applications are reviewed by a committee that includes representatives from all three levels of the court system, as well as members of the Law Society of Alberta and the Alberta branch of the Canadian Bar Association. In accordance with the King’s Counsel Act, the Minister of Justice has discretion to identify additional names for appointment, which has happened historically, and again this year. The final list is then submitted to cabinet for consideration and approval.
Leslie Cholowsky
Editor