The Government of British Columbia has announced the appointment of John Douglas Jevning, KC, as a new judicial justice to the Provincial Court, effective July 16.
Jevning brings over 38 years of legal experience to his new role. A seasoned criminal defence counsel in the Vancouver area, he has appeared at all levels of court in British Columbia and the Supreme Court of Canada, handling civil and criminal matters, including trials and appeals.
He is particularly known for his work on long and complex criminal cases and has extensive experience in charter issues, judicial authorizations, and addressing the challenges faced by Indigenous people within the justice system.
Beyond his courtroom experience, Jevning has contributed significantly to legal education and mentorship. He has coordinated programs and lectured for the Continuing Legal Education Society of British Columbia, presented to federal and provincial prosecution services, and held various positions within the Canadian Bar Association. Moreover, Jevning has served as a senior mentor in a national pro bono initiative that pairs law-student volunteers with qualified mentors. In recognition of his contributions to the legal field, he was appointed King’s Counsel in 2020.
The provincial government emphasizes its commitment to ensuring equal access to justice for all residents. In making judicial appointments, considerations include the court’s needs, the diversity of the bench, and the specific expertise of the candidates.