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January 2026
IN THIS ISSUE: NSBS Acting President, Statistical Snapshot 2025, Call to Bar, Law Reform, African Heritage Month, Committee Opportunities, January Missing Wills, Equity Scenarios, and Human Rights Award.
Articles and News
Candee McCarthy named NSBS Acting President
After a special NSBS Council meeting held on January 13th, a motion was approved for Candee McCarthy to assume the powers of the office of NSBS President (i.e. Acting President) until her formal appointment to the office in June 2026 (for the 2026-2027 term).
In Review: NSBS Statistical Snapshot 2025
Each year the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society conducts a survey of our membership to create an annual snapshot of the Nova Scotia Legal Profession.
Nova Scotia Bar Admissions – January 16, 2026
Check out the recording from the NSBS’ most recent webinar exploring the process for becoming a principal and the responsibilities involved in supervising an articled clerk.
Access to Justice and Law Reform Institute Probate Survey
The Access to Justice and Law Reform Institute are inviting Nova Scotia lawyers to share their perspectives on simplifying the probate process.
Celebrating African Heritage Month – February 2026
African Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the unique role African Nova Scotians have played within our province’s history and culture.
Upcoming Deadlines
Advisory Committee on Provincial Judicial Appointments: Call for Expressions of Interest
The Society is seeking Nova Scotia lawyers interested in serving on the Advisory Committee on Provincial Judicial Appointments.
Deadline: February 10, 2026
Second VP for 2026-2027 Term: Call for Expressions of Interest
The Society’s Nominating Committee is seeking expressions of interest for the 2026-2027 Second Vice-President position.
Deadline: February 13, 2026
Professional Reminder
Notice to the Profession: New Mandatory Anti-Money Laundering Course
The NSBS has implemented a mandatory requirement for lawyers who handle client funds to complete the Federation’s online Anti-Money Laundering course.
Lawyers who fall under this requirement must complete the course before submitting their June 2026 Annual Report.
Across the Profession
Missing Wills – January 2026
We offer an online form whereby members of the public may provide details relating to a family member’s Will, should they be unable to locate it.
We have been advised of the following missing Wills for the 30-day period ending January 15, 2025.
Equity and Access Resources
Equity in Action Scenario: New Client Intake
Scenario: A mid-sized law firm is onboarding a new client who is a person with a physical disability and whose first language is not English.
Dr. Sherry Pictou Receives Nova Scotia Human Rights Award
Dr. Sherry Pictou, Professor of Law and Management at Dalhousie University has received the 2025 Nova Scotia Human Rights Award.