Khullar was also chief justice of the appeals courts for the Northwest Territories and Nunavut
Legal bodies are paying tribute to the late Ritu Khullar following the announcement of her death last Thursday September 3.
Khullar has been Alberta’s chief justice since November 2022. She was also chief justice of the appeals courts for the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
Canada justice minister Sean Fraser described Khullar as “a respected jurist and leader.” Khullar concentrated on public law matters involving labour and employment, privacy, administrative, human rights, and constitutional law.
She was a private practitioner for over 20 years before joining the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta in March 2017. The following year, she was appointed to the Courts of Appeal of Alberta, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories.
“Throughout her career, [Khullar] dedicated herself to public service. Her many contributions have made a profound impact on Alberta and Canada's justice systems,” said Danielle Smith, Alberta premier, in her joint statement with Alberta justice minister Mickey Amery. “As chief justice of Alberta, she carried the significant responsibility of leading Alberta’s highest court and earned the respect of colleagues across the legal community.”
Amery added that Khullar had demonstrated “a steadfast dedication to the rule of law and to ensuring that Albertans have confidence in our justice system” in her time on the bench.
“As chief justice, she brought both intellectual rigour and compassionate leadership to her role. She worked tirelessly to strengthen the justice system and to advance meaningful access to justice while preserving the independence and integrity of the courts,” Amery said.
Sarah Vincella Coderre, president of the Canadian Bar Association’s Alberta branch, said the body remembered Khullar as “a valued member of our Association and as someone who understood the importance of connection within the profession.” Coderre highlighted Khullar as an active leader in the association’s sections and a mentor.
“Ritu was a friend and supporter of the Law Society, and we valued her insight and our relationship with her over the years. Her contribution to the profession and then to the courts will remain an important legacy and we will always remember her with affection and respect,” said Bud Melnyk, president of the Law Society of Alberta.
