Alberta Lawyers Rally Against Government's Judicial Attacks and Use of Notwithstanding Clause
Approximately 100 lawyers and justice system participants assembled on the steps of the Alberta legislature on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, to voice strong opposition to what they characterize as systematic attacks on the rule of law by the United Conservative Party government. The protest, organized by the Edmonton Criminal Trial Lawyers' Association, featured demonstrators carrying placards with messages such as "respect judicial independence" and "hands off our courts."
Protesters Target Multiple Government Actions
The protesters specifically highlighted several concerning developments from the Alberta government over recent months. These include the repeated use of the notwithstanding clause, public criticism of judges, and the dismantling of the Alberta Law Foundation. According to CTLA president Shawn King, these actions represent a dangerous trend that threatens democratic principles.
"Over the last six months or so, we've seen a steady decline in respect for democracy and rule of law from the Alberta government," King stated during the protest. "We've watched them put into effect the notwithstanding clause four times — once against teachers, three times against the LGBTQ+ community."
Concerns About Judicial Independence
The protest comes in response to recent comments from Premier Danielle Smith regarding the judiciary. Smith has expressed a desire to "direct" judges and have greater influence over judicial appointments. She has also characterized judges as "activist" and "unelected," while suggesting her government will continue relying on the notwithstanding clause due to what she describes as "10 years of judges being appointed by Justin Trudeau."
King further elaborated on these concerns, noting that the premier has misstated Supreme Court of Canada decisions in the legislature and that the justice minister has insulated himself from the law society. "What we're concerned about is that we're seeing a slow slide here, of the erosion of the rule of law and the erosion of democracy in Alberta," King emphasized. "If this continues, this moves towards tyranny."
Broader Implications for Democracy
The protest represents growing unease within Alberta's legal community about the direction of provincial governance. Lawyers' groups have become increasingly vocal following Premier Smith's comments about the judiciary, warning that such rhetoric risks undermining public confidence in the justice system and democratic institutions.
The demonstration at the legislature serves as a visible manifestation of these concerns, with legal professionals taking a public stand against what they perceive as threats to judicial independence and constitutional principles. The protest highlights ongoing tensions between the provincial government and the legal community regarding the proper boundaries of executive power and the protection of democratic norms.
