The committee evaluates candidates and sends recommendations to Ottawa, and the federal justice minister then chooses who to recommend for appointment. Alberta Justice Minister Mickey Amery answers questions at a news conference in Calgary, on Feb. 20, 2026. 'Distinct legal traditions'Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has argued that greater provincial control could help ensure judges “appropriately reflect Alberta's distinct legal traditions.” A spokesperson in Alberta’s justice ministry did not directly address a question requesting more information around what the province considers to be Alberta’s “distinct legal traditions.” Kent said delays in federal judicial appointments have been a serious problem at times, including in the years surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.