Justice Andrea Chrenek has been named the assistant chief justice of the Alberta Court of Justice for the northern region, embarking on a five-year term in this pivotal role.
In her new capacity, Justice Chrenek will play a crucial role in supporting the chief justice and overseeing legal affairs across the northern region of Alberta. This area encompasses base courts in Grande Prairie, Peace River, High Prairie, and High Level, along with their respective circuit points.
Justice Chrenek’s appointment was met with high praise from key judicial figures. Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General, lauded her three decades of legal experience, noting that her deep knowledge and dedication to justice will uphold the exceptional standards of Alberta’s judiciary. Chief Justice James Hunter of the Alberta Court of Justice also extended congratulations, recognizing Chrenek’s extensive background and bench experience as invaluable assets for her new role. He expressed eagerness to collaborate with her in the years ahead.
Justice Chrenek’s legal career began after graduating with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Alberta in 1993. She initially worked at Brownlee Fryett (now Brownlee LLP) in Edmonton before moving to Lewis & Chrenek LLP in Grande Prairie in 1996, where she became a partner a year later, specializing in civil and family litigation. Her appointment as a justice of the Alberta Court of Justice in 2018 marked a significant milestone in her career, which has been distinguished by her commitment to collaboration, effective communication, and fostering a supportive work environment.
Assistant chief justices are appointed based on the recommendation of the chief justice of the Alberta Court of Justice to the minister of justice. Justice Chrenek’s term is effective immediately, signaling the start of a new chapter in the Alberta Court of Justice, particularly for the northern region.
