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 (Maliseet) 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 (Maliseet) 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.
NSBS and CBA-NS Co-Sponsor Prisme Pride Reception
On July 23, NSBS and CBA-NS co-sponsored a special Pride Reception following the Call-Acal Annual Conference.
Recognizing Emancipation Day in Canada
August 1 is Emancipation Day – We encourage members to take the opportunity to learn more about the lasting effects of Slavery in Canada.
Days of Significance – August 2026
The NSBS provides a monthly list of days of cultural, religious, and historical significance to support the diverse community of Nova Scotia.
Seeking Counsel for Members Involved in Disciplinary Matters
The Society is seeking members to act on a reduced fee or pro bono basis for lawyers involved in disciplinary proceedings.
NSBS Professional Responsibility Opportunities for Racialized Lawyers and Members of the Public
The Society is recruiting racialized lawyers and members of the public for various professional responsibility committee roles.
New Members Appointed to NSBS Council in June Meeting
Two new HRM representatives and one new public representative have been appointed to the NSBS Council, following the 2026 Annual Meeting.