Awards

The Department of Justice encourages excellence in every aspect of our justice system. While we strive for excellence in the work we do on a day-to-day basis, the Department also sponsors a number of awards to celebrate outstanding achievement in upholding and advancing Canada's justice system. Our awards recognize the accomplishments of individuals in disciplines as diverse as public service, youth justice and journalism.

Justicia Award for Excellence in Legal Journalism

The Department and the Canadian Bar Association give this Award for French or English stories in two categories: print and broadcast media. The Award celebrates outstanding journalism that fosters public awareness and understanding of any aspect of the Canadian justice system and the roles played by institutions and participants in the legal system.

John Tait Award of Excellence

This Award was established in 1998 to honour, recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of public sector lawyers in Canada. Originally named the Inukshuk Award of Excellence, it was renamed in August 1999 to honour an outstanding lawyer, public servant and friend who passed away in the summer of 1999. The award is presented each year at the Canadian Bar Association (CBA) Annual Conference to a public sector lawyer or law office who has achieved the highest standards of professional conduct and competence and made significant contributions to social justice or community affairs, and who exemplifies pre-eminent public service.

Minister of Justice National Youth Justice Policing Award

The Department of Justice, in collaboration with the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP), present this Award every year at the CACP Annual Conference. The Award recognizes the efforts of police officers, singly or as a team, who, in an innovative and creative manner, look beyond the formal court system in dealing with young persons who come into conflict with the law. The Award celebrates innovative policing and serves to inform the police and wider community about creative responses to youth crime.

Dispute Resolution Award in Law Studies

The Dispute Resolution Award in Law Studies is currently under review. Past recipients are listed here.