The Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador sees the introduction of two new justices, as announced by the Hon. Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. These appointments follow the judicial application process initiated in 2016, which centers on transparency, merit, and Canadian diversity.
Justice David Conway, previously a sole practitioner based in St. John’s, will serve on the Supreme Court’s General Division. This appointment comes after the unfortunate passing of Justice D. Paquette on January 10, 2022. Meanwhile, Chief Justice has transferred Justice P. O’Flaherty from Grand Bank to fill this position, resulting in the vacancy now being located in Grand Bank.
Stephanie Hickman, K.C., a former partner at Cox & Palmer in St. John’s, joins the Supreme Court’s Family Division. This appointment arises from the elevation of Justice D. Boone to the Court of Appeal on June 2, 2022. Following this, Chief Justice moved Justice I. Muzychka into Boone’s former position, leading to the vacancy in St. John’s – Family Division.
Minister Virani shared his positive sentiments, stating, “I wish Justices Conway and Hickman every success as they take on their new roles. I am confident they will serve the people of Newfoundland and Labrador well as members of the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Justice Conway, a St. John’s native, boasts an accomplished background in labour law, having previously served as the Chairperson of the Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Relations Board. After completing his term in 2022, he assumed the roles of a labour arbitrator, adjudicator, and independent legal counsel. Moreover, he actively engaged in educational endeavors, teaching at Memorial University and the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar Admission Course. Additionally, Conway has participated in various volunteering roles, presented at conferences across Canada, and made appearances in several courts, including the Supreme Court of Canada.
On the other side, Justice Hickman has been recognized as a leader in construction, commercial, and energy law. Throughout her professional journey at Cox & Palmer, she has been honored for her expertise and has taken on prominent roles, including acting as counsel in the Offshore Helicopter Safety Inquiry. In 2019, she received the King’s Counsel designation, highlighting her significant contributions to the legal profession. Beyond her professional duties, Hickman has been deeply involved in various committees and organizations, both inside and outside the legal realm.
Both Justices bring their extensive experience and expertise to the bench, promising a bright future for the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador.
