Alberta justices stress judicial independence after premier muses about directing courts

Chief justices from Alberta's three court levels issued a rare public statement affirming judicial independence after Premier Danielle Smith said she 'wishes' she could direct judges; government spokespeople said they respect the separation of powers.

Chief justices from Alberta's three levels of court issued a rare public statement underlining the importance of judicial independence. The letter was posted on the Alberta Courts website and is signed by the acting Chief Justice of Alberta, the Court of King's Bench chief justice, and the chief justice of the Court of Justice. The statement follows comments by Premier Danielle Smith on a radio call-in show in which she said she "wishes" she could direct judges while discussing bail and court decisions. Government spokespeople and court officials have offered brief responses noting respect for separation of powers and that the judges' message aims to clarify the courts' role. Key facts: - A public letter from Alberta's three chief justices emphasizes that the separation of executive, legislative and judicial branches is essential and that judicial independence protects the public. - The premier told a radio audience she "wishes" she could direct judges while raising concerns about bail decisions and the courts' deference to legislatures. - The provincial government's press secretary said the government respects each branch's role, and a court spokesperson described the justices' statement as educational. - No formal legal or procedural changes were announced following the statement; further actions are undetermined. Summary: The chief justices issued a public reminder about judicial independence after the premier's comments prompted attention. Officials on both sides have made brief public remarks but have not announced formal actions. Undetermined at this time.