Rosalie Silberman Abella is a renowned Canadian jurist, having served as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada from 2004 to 2021. Born on July 1, 1946, in Stuttgart, Germany, to Jewish parents who survived the Holocaust, Abella's life and career have been marked by a strong commitment to justice, human rights, and the advancement of women in the legal profession.
Early Life and Education
Abella’s family immigrated to Canada when she was a young child, settling in Toronto. She grew up in a family that valued education and public service, which would later influence her career choices. Abella earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Toronto in 1967 and her Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Toronto Faculty of Law in 1970. She was called to the Ontario bar in 1972.
Early Career and Appointments
Abella began her legal career as a lawyer in Toronto, specializing in family law and human rights. In 1976, she was appointed to the Ontario Family Court, becoming the first Jewish woman to serve on the Ontario bench. Her dedication to family law and her expertise in this area led to her appointment as the Chair of the Ontario Law Reform Commission’s Family Law Project in 1984. Abella’s work on this project resulted in significant reforms to Ontario’s family law legislation.
In 1992, Abella was appointed to the Court of Appeal for Ontario, where she served for 12 years before being appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada in 2004. Her appointment to the Supreme Court made her the first Jewish woman to serve on Canada's highest court.
| Position | Year Appointed |
|---|---|
| Ontario Family Court | 1976 |
| Ontario Court of Appeal | 1992 |
| Supreme Court of Canada | 2004 |
Judicial Philosophy and Notable Decisions
During her tenure on the Supreme Court, Abella has been known for her progressive and human rights-focused approach to the law. She has written significant decisions in areas such as family law, constitutional law, and human rights law. One of her most notable decisions is the 2019 ruling in Law Society of British Columbia v. Trinity Western University, which dealt with the issue of religious freedom and equality rights.
Impact on Canadian Law and Society
Abella’s contributions to Canadian law and society extend beyond her judicial decisions. She has been a champion for women’s rights and diversity in the legal profession. Abella has also been recognized for her work in promoting access to justice and public legal education. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of lawyers, judges, and legal scholars.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the legal profession and Canadian society, Abella has received numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario.
What is Rosalie Abella's most notable contribution to Canadian law?
+Abella's most notable contribution to Canadian law is her human rights-focused approach to judicial decision-making, as seen in her decisions on family law, constitutional law, and human rights law. Her commitment to access to justice and public legal education has also had a significant impact on Canadian society.
What awards and honors has Rosalie Abella received?
+Abella has received numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario. These recognitions reflect her outstanding contributions to the legal profession and Canadian society.
Rosalie Silberman Abella’s remarkable career and legacy serve as a testament to her dedication to justice and her commitment to public service. As a trailblazer for women in the legal profession, Abella’s impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
