The recent passing of Alberta’s chief justice, who also held the same position for the courts of appeal in Alberta, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories, is being honored for her dedicated service. Ritu Khullar, who passed away surrounded by her family after an illness, had a notable career spanning over two decades in private practice, focusing on various public law issues such as labor, employment, privacy, administrative, human rights, and constitutional law.
In 2017, Khullar was appointed to the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta, and later in 2022, she assumed the roles of chief justice for Alberta and the courts of appeal in Alberta, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith praised Khullar’s integrity and commitment to justice, highlighting her lasting impact on the province.
Described as a highly respected jurist by the Court of Appeal of Alberta, Khullar was known for her intellect, thoughtfulness, and compassion in her judicial work. Her profound understanding of the implications of her decisions on individuals’ lives reflected her dedication to delivering justice.
Alberta’s Justice Minister, Mickey Amery, offered condolences to Khullar’s family, recognizing her enduring contributions to the legal landscape of the province. Federal Justice Minister Sean Fraser also acknowledged Khullar’s national impact, emphasizing her legacy as an inspiration for upholding democracy and fostering a fair and humane justice system for all Canadians.
As the legal community mourns the loss of Chief Justice Khullar, her significant contributions and compassionate approach to justice will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
