Legal group asks for judicial review of case against Judge Alain Bégin

A coalition representing three major groups in the Nova Scotia justice system is calling for a judicial review in the case of Judge Alain Bégin.

The provincial court judge has come under fire for his comments and actions in several cases, prompting strong criticism from the province’s top court for his conduct.

In a recent decision in March, a review committee tasked with investigating the complaints against Judge Bégin recommended that he should be reprimanded for his behavior. However, they stopped short of recommending a judicial council hearing that could potentially lead to his removal from the bench. The committee cited an undiagnosed mental condition as a contributing factor to Bégin’s questionable behavior.

Now, a coalition comprised of the Nova Scotia Criminal Lawyers’ Association, the Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia, and the Mi’kmaw Legal Support Network is seeking a judicial review of the committee’s decision.

In court documents filed on Monday, the coalition has requested public interest standing, which would allow them to bring the case before the courts on behalf of the public interest. They emphasized the importance of ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability within the justice system, including in the judicial complaints review process.

One of the key issues that the coalition wants the court to address is the criteria for determining when a matter should be referred to a public hearing. They believe that the public must have confidence in the judicial accountability process, particularly when it comes to reviewing complaints of judicial misconduct.

One incident that triggered the committee’s review of Judge Bégin involved his use of the term “deviant” to describe an accused individual in a sexual assault case. Although he attempted to retract his statement, the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal issued a strong rebuke in response.

As of now, no date has been set for a hearing in Supreme Court to address the coalition’s request for a judicial review. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the accountability and transparency of the Nova Scotia justice system.