Christopher Millsap, K.C., a Partner at O’Neill, Hurley, O’Keeffe, Millsap/Liberty Law LLP in Grande Prairie, has been appointed as a Justice of the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta in Grande Prairie.
Justice Minister and Attorney General of Canada David Lametti expressed his confidence in Justice Millsap, wishing him success in his new role and stating, “I am confident he will serve Albertans well as a member of the Court of King’s Bench.”
Justice Millsap, originally from the B.C. Peace Country, completed his secondary education at Chetwynd Secondary School in 1993. He then moved to Grande Prairie, where he attended college and pursued a career in junior hockey before ultimately enrolling at the University of Alberta, where he obtained his law degree. He was called to the Alberta bar in 2003.
Following his articling period at Beresh DePoe Cunningham, later known as Liberty Law, Justice Millsap joined the firm and remained there until his recent appointment. In 2008, he returned to his hometown in the Peace Country, where he managed Liberty Law’s Grande Prairie office and built a strong reputation as a passionate advocate for his clients.
Throughout his career, Justice Millsap has appeared in criminal courts across Canada, showcasing his expertise and dedication. In recognition of his contributions to the legal profession and the community, he was awarded the Bruce Gunn Memorial Award in 2007 and received the prestigious King’s Counsel designation in 2020.
Justice Millsap’s commitment to his community extends beyond the courtroom. He actively participates in Grande Prairie Minor Hockey and volunteers his time as a coach and referee for the AJHL’s Grande Prairie Storm. During his leisure time, he enjoys camping, fishing, and spending quality moments with his partner, Danielle, and their four children at their family cabin on Moberly Lake.
The appointment of Justice Millsap fills one of the two new positions authorized by the Budget Implementation Act, 2022, No. 1, demonstrating the federal government’s commitment to strengthening the judicial capacity in Alberta, it said.
