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The Ministry of Attorney General of British Columbia is a provincial government department responsible for a broad range of legal services in the province. Its responsibilities encompass sheriff and court administration services, legal aid, prosecution services, administrative tribunals, civil and family justice services, the protection and promotion of human rights, and providing legal advice to the Government of British Columbia.
Background
editThe attorney general of British Columbia (AG) oversees the Ministry of Attorney General within the province of British Columbia, Canada. The attorney general is a member of the provincial cabinet, typically a member of Legislative Assembly who is chosen by the premier of British Columbia and formally appointed by the lieutenant governor of British Columbia.[citation needed]
The Ministry of Attorney General of British Columbia was established on August 5, 1871, following British Columbia's entry into the Canadian Confederation on July 20, 1871. John Foster McCreight, who also served as the first Premier of British Columbia, was the first Attorney General of the province of British Columbia.[1]
The ministry’s mandate includes ensuring that the justice system in British Columbia keeps communities safe and operates with fairness, proportionality, and certainty in criminal, civil, and family law matters. The ministry strives to make the justice system accessible, overcoming barriers such as distance and complexity, and aims to provide clear information and options to the public.[citation needed]
The Ministry of Attorney General actively engages with British Columbians to shape legislation and policy. The ministry’s legislation and policy pages provide comprehensive information on legislative updates, current online consultations, and an archive of past consultations. The ministry is involved in various legislation and policy reviews to advance government priorities, address public interest issues, and respond to developments in common law. Feedback from the public is often sought on legislative or policy proposals to help the ministry evaluate and address issues related to potential changes.[citation needed]
The current minister and attorney general since December 7, 2022 is Niki Sharma.[2]
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ "McCREIGHT, JOHN FOSTER". Dictionary of Canadian Biography.
- ^ "Niki Sharma will draw on lessons learned a young girl in Sparwood in her new role as B.C.'s Attorney General". Vancouver Sun.