Nineteen lawyers in Manitoba have been appointed as King’s Counsel (KC), a prestigious designation awarded to members of the legal profession who have made significant contributions to their field. The announcement was made by Manitoba Justice Minister Matt Wiebe.
Among those recognized is Murray Sinclair, who received his KC designation earlier this month. Sinclair, a former senator and chief commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, has been acknowledged for his extensive work within the legal profession and his dedication to serving both Manitobans and Canadians.
“I offer my sincere appreciation to all those appointed as King’s Counsel for their leadership in the legal profession and their service to Manitobans,” Wiebe said in a statement. “I want to congratulate appointees for this well-deserved honour.”
The remaining 18 lawyers received their appointments in August 2023. The list of honourees includes:
- Joseph Barnsley
- Frank Lavitt
- Fay-Lynn Katz
- Bryan Schwartz
- Sandra Kliman
- Michael Richards
- Glenn Joynt
- Steven Kohn
- David Wright
- Kenneth Mandzuik
- Jody Langhan
- Katherine Bueti
- Wendy Martin White
- Laurelle Harris
- Grant Driedger
- Jeremy Akerstream
- Geraldine Wiebe
- Jason Bryk
The King’s Counsel title is granted by the lieutenant-governor in council, following recommendations from the justice minister, who consults with an advisory council. This council includes representatives from the judiciary, legal community, and the public, and is chaired by Chief Justice Marianne Rivoalen of the Manitoba Court of Appeal.
To be eligible for the KC designation, a lawyer must have demonstrated exceptional practice, integrity, and leadership in the profession, and must have been in practice for at least 10 years.
A ceremony honouring the 2023 and 2024 appointees is scheduled for September 12. The application process for the next round of King’s Counsel appointments will begin early in the new year, according to the minister.
