Honourable Martine St-Louis Appointed Associate Chief Justice of the Federal Court

Ottawa, Ontario – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced the appointment of the Honourable Martine St-Louis as the new Associate Chief Justice of the Federal Court. Judge St-Louis brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as a judge of the Federal Court and the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada.

She succeeds the Honourable Jocelyne Gagné, who transitioned to the role of puisne judge earlier this year on August 31, 2024.

Prime Minister Trudeau expressed confidence in St-Louis’s ability to excel in her new role. “She is a respected member of the legal community and has extensive experience in many areas of the law. I am confident she will continue to be a great asset to the Federal Court in her new role,” he said in his announcement.

As Associate Chief Justice, St-Louis will oversee the leadership and administration of the Federal Court alongside her judicial duties. She will also serve as a member of the Canadian Judicial Council, a body dedicated to enhancing the quality of judicial services in Canada’s superior courts.

The appointment process for Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices in Canada involves their nomination by the Prime Minister, followed by formal appointment by the Governor General on the advice of Cabinet.

St-Louis’s appointment is seen as a continuation of her exemplary service within Canada’s legal framework, where she has made significant contributions across various areas of law.

This leadership change marks a new chapter for the Federal Court as it continues its mission to uphold justice and deliver judicial services to Canadians.