A Cape Breton native, she began her legal career at Sheldon Nathanson Law
The Honourable Jillian Barrington, a judge of the provincial court of Nova Scotia, has been appointed to the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia (Family Division) in Halifax. This appointment, announced by Honourable Arif Virani, minister of justice and attorney general of Canada, fills the vacancy left by Justice L.R. Jesudason, who was promoted to associate chief justice earlier this year.
A Cape Breton native, Justice Barrington began her legal career at Sheldon Nathanson Law after graduating from Schulich School of Law in 2010. Her areas of practice include criminal, family, employment and property law, and wills and estates.
Beyond her legal work, Justice Barrington has been involved in the Nova Scotia legal community as well as community organizations. She actively participated in the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, contributing to various committees focused on credentials, family standards, and rural practice. She has also been involved in the activities of community organizations like the Elizabeth Fry Society, where she served as both a Board member and national president for its Canadian association.
Minister Virani expressed confidence in Justice Barrington’s abilities. “I wish Justice Barrington every success as she takes on her new role. I am confident she will serve the people of Nova Scotia well as a member of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia,” he said.
A news release highlighted this appointment is part of a broader effort by the Canadian government to increase diversity and transparency in judicial appointments. Since 2015, over 795 judges have been appointed with a focus on ensuring representation of women, racialized persons, Indigenous people, and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.