The receivers of the honorary title of King’s Counsel (KC) for 2022 will be declared in spring 2023.

The KC designation recognizes lawyers in British Columbia for distinct merit and excellent contributions to the lawful profession. Successful candidates will have demonstrated professional reliability and good character, and must have been a associate of the British Columbia bar for at least five years.

Under the King’s Counsel Act, the lieutenant-governor in counsel, on the recommendation of the attorney general, may bestow on lawyers in British Columbia the honorary title of King’s Counsel.

KC appointments are naturally proclaimed before the end of each year. Though, the 2022 announcements were delayed due to government transition in the fall.

All applications are reviewed by an optional committee, which commends commendable candidates to the lawyer general. The committee includes:

  • the main justice of B.C.;
  • the chief justice of the Supreme Court of B.C.;
  • the chief judge of the Regional Court of B.C.;
  • the president of the Law Society of BC (LSBC);
  • the president of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia Branch;
  • an LSBC member chosen by the benchers (directors); and
  • C.’s deputy attorney general.

Quick Facts:

  • Every year, the attorney general sends a call for proposals letter to the courts, the Law Society of British Columbia, the Canadian Bar Association, B.C. Branch and the Trial Lawyers Association.
  • No more than 7% of practicing B.C. lawyers can be selected as King’s Counsel.