We ensure lawyers serve all Nova Scotians with trust, integrity, and professionalism
We regulate
the legal profession in the public interest
- Establishing and upholding ethical standards
- Accrediting articling clerks and lawyers
- Receiving and investigating complaints concerning lawyers
- Setting lawyers’ practice standards and competency requirements
- Supporting access to justice
We value
Transparency
Being open, honest, and transparent in our processes, and timely in our decision making
Respect
Acknowledging the humanity and worth of all individuals and treating them accordingly
Accountability
Being ethical, responsive, independent, and objective
This place and people
Mi’kmaq Land Acknowledgement
The Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People. This territory is covered by the “Treaties of Peace and Friendship” which Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik (wool-las-two-wi-ig) People first signed with the British Crown in 1725. The treaties did not deal with surrender of lands and resources but in fact recognized Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik title and established the rules for what was to be an ongoing relationship between nations.
African Nova Scotian Acknowledgement
We recognize that African Nova Scotians are a distinct people who form part of over 52 historical land based communities, whose histories, legacies, and contributions have enriched that part of Mi’kma’ki known as Nova Scotia for over 400 years.
We all succeed when lawyers deliver competent, ethical, legal services to all Nova Scotians according to the highest professional standards
For Nova Scotia Lawyers, NSBS provides guidance at every step.
Starting
Starting can mean re-starting, too. Whether you’re studying, articling, relocating, or finding a new path, we have the tools you need.
Practising
Practising at the highest standards means you’re fully in practice, and want to ensure you’re delivering at the top of your profession.
Retiring Well
Retiring means more than succession planning. Leave your practice in the best shape possible for clients, colleagues, and community.
Call for Public Representative: Contribute to Nova Scotia’s Legal Profession as a Member of Council
We’re looking for a member of the public to join our three other Public Representatives on the NSBS Council.
Remembrance Day 2026 – Office Closure
In honour of Remembrance Day, our office will be closed on November 11, 2026. Regular office hours will resume on November 12, 2026.
CBA-NS Hosts 2026 Annual Conference
Join CBA-NS for their 2026 Annual Conference on November 20, 2026 at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel.
NSBS Brief – October 2026
Your connection to the legal profession in Nova Scotia. Get caught up on Society happenings through our monthly NSBS Brief – October 2026.
Equity in Action Scenario: When Access to a Lawyer Becomes a Barrier
Sarah is seeking legal advice about separation, parenting arrangements, financial support, and obtaining a protection order.
Days of Significance – November 2026
The NSBS provides a monthly list of days of cultural, religious, and historical significance to support the diverse community of Nova Scotia.