Protecting Canada's Courts: Lessons from Our Longest-Serving Chief Justice

The role of apex courts in safeguarding constitutional values and democratic institutions, and upholding the rule of law, has become acute in an era of backsliding.

What distinctive features of Canada's judicial system have protected its independence? How does Canada compare to the United States? Are these norms, structures and rules adequate for the challenges ahead?

As Canada's longest-serving Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada (2000-2017), the Right Honourable Beverley McLachlin presided over some of the most significant legal decisions in our history. In this crucial moment for democracy worldwide, she offers unique insights into the resilience of Canada's judicial system and the challenges facing our courts in an era of increasing populism, mistrust and polarization.

In conversation with Sanjay Ruparelia at the Toronto Reference Library.