Carney begins process of finding judge to fill coming Supreme Court of Canada opening

Supreme Court of Canada Justices take part in the Ceremonial Opening of the Judicial Year at the Supreme Court of Canada in Ottawa on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025.

OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney has started the process to fill the Supreme Court of Canada vacancy that will open up when Justice Sheilah Martin retires on May 30.

The Montreal-born Martin trained in civil and common law before moving to Alberta to pursue work as an educator, lawyer and judge.

She was named to the Supreme Court in 2017, and will step down the day before her 70th birthday.

In a media statement, the Prime Minister’s Office says candidates for the top court have until April 27 to put their names forward.

It notes candidates may demonstrate they satisfy the geographical requirement through reference to their bar membership, judicial appointment or other relationship with western and Northern Canada.

An independent advisory board will review applications and submit a shortlist of qualified candidates to Carney for consideration.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 30, 2026.

Jim Bronskill, The Canadian Press