How do I file a complaint against a Provincial Court judge?
You can file a complaint by sending it to the Registrar by mail or email.
Mailing address:
427 Queen Street, Suite 201
P.O. Box 6000
Fredericton, New Brunswick
E3B 5H1
Email: [email protected]
Your complaint must:
- Be signed
- Include your name and contact information
- Identify the judge
- Describe what happened, including dates, times, and place
- Provide as much detail as possible
For what reasons can I make a complaint?
You may complain about:
- Misconduct (for example, inappropriate behaviour)
- Neglect of duty
- Inability or incapacity to perform judicial duties
I disagree with a judge’s decision. Should I file a complaint?
No. A complaint is not the right process if you disagree with a decision or order.
- A complaint is about the judge’s conduct or behaviour.
- An appeal is the process used to review whether a decision was legally correct.
If you believe the decision is wrong, you should seek legal advice about appealing the decision, not filing a complaint.
What happens after I file a complaint?
The process is designed to be fair and efficient:
- Registrar review
- The Registrar reviews your complaint, usually within about 20 business days.
- Complaints that are clearly without merit may be dismissed.
- Review by a judge
- If the complaint proceeds, it is assigned to a judge for review.
- Possible outcomes at this stage
- The complaint may be dismissed
- A warning or expression of concern may be issued
- The matter may be resolved
- The matter may be referred for further review
- Further review (if needed)
- More serious matters may be reviewed by a panel and, in some cases, a formal hearing may be held.
Where can I find the full process?
This document provides only a general overview.
The complete complaint process, including detailed procedures and possible outcomes, is set out in: Procedures Respecting Complaints Against Provincial Court Judges and Adjudicators Act.
You can find the legislation here:
👉 https://laws.gnb.ca