The Minister of Justice has announced that applications for King's Counsel appointments will open on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. Applications must be submitted no later than Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. MT.
King's Counsel appointments are awarded to Alberta lawyers who have made particular contributions to the legal profession or to public life. To be eligible, applicants must have been called to the bar for at least 10 years (with active practising status), with a minimum of 5 years practicing in Alberta. Individuals are evaluated based on detailed criteria including legal leadership and contributions to the administration of justice, the community, and the legal profession.
Review process
Applications will be reviewed by the King's Counsel Screening Committee, which is comprised of representatives from the Law Society of Alberta, CBA Alberta, Alberta Courts, the Ministry of Justice, and representatives from the North, Central and Southern districts. The committee will advise the Minister of Justice whether each applicant recommended or not recommended.
How to apply
The 2025/26 King’s Counsel application form will be available on the Alberta Justice website on September 2. Applications must be submitted via the online application form – physical submissions will not be accepted.
In order to be eligible for appointment, applicants must meet the requirements set out in the King's Counsel Act.