The Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch recognized criminal justice lawyer Christopher Johnson, KC with its highest honour, the Georges A. Goyer, QC Memorial Award for Distinguished Service. The award was presented at the Vancouver Bench & Bar Dinner on June 11 at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel.
A member of the bar since 1986, Johnson is a respected defence lawyer and founding partner of law firm Johnson Doyle. Throughout his career, he has been an advocate for improving British Columbian’s access to legal help. He played a key role in establishing the Vancouver Downtown Community Court and co-founded the Association of Legal Aid Lawyers.
“We need to expand access to the justice system. To do that, people need access to lawyers,” Johnson said. Deeply committed to equity in the profession, Johnson’s donation to the University of Victoria’s Faculty of Law has awarded scholarships to First Nations students for over 26 years.
CBABC President Lee Nevens praised Johnson for his leadership and contributions. "Chris has worked tirelessly to strengthen the criminal justice system and support the lawyers who serve British Columbians. His unwavering dedication to equity and access to justice makes him truly deserving of this honour,” Nevens said.
The Georges A. Goyer, QC Memorial Award for Distinguished Service acknowledges outstanding contributions to the legal profession, the law, jurisprudence or significant law-related advancements benefiting British Columbians. This prestigious award honours the legacy of Georges A. Goyer, QC, a highly respected lawyer known for his exemplary service to the Canadian Bar Association and the profession.
About CBABC:
The Canadian Bar Association is the professional organization representing 40,000 lawyers, judges and law students across Canada with over 8,000 members in British Columbia. CBABC members practice at the forefront of the justice system, providing services to British Columbians in every area of law. CBABC is located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Tsleil-Waututh, Squamish and Musqueam First Nations.
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