We ensure lawyers serve all Nova Scotians with trust, integrity, and professionalism
We regulate
the legal profession in the public interest
- Establishing and upholding ethical standards
- Accrediting articling clerks and lawyers
- Receiving and investigating complaints concerning lawyers
- Setting lawyers’ practice standards and competency requirements
- Supporting access to justice
We value
Transparency
Being open, honest, and transparent in our processes, and timely in our decision making
Respect
Acknowledging the humanity and worth of all individuals and treating them accordingly
Accountability
Being ethical, responsive, independent, and objective
This place and people
Mi’kmaq Land Acknowledgement
The Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People. This territory is covered by the “Treaties of Peace and Friendship” which Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) People first signed with the British Crown in 1725. The treaties did not deal with surrender of lands and resources but in fact recognized Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) title and established the rules for what was to be an ongoing relationship between nations.
African Nova Scotian Acknowledgement
We recognize that African Nova Scotians are a distinct people who form part of over 52 historical land based communities, whose histories, legacies, and contributions have enriched that part of Mi’kma’ki known as Nova Scotia for over 400 years.
We all succeed when lawyers deliver competent, ethical, legal services to all Nova Scotians according to the highest professional standards
For Nova Scotia Lawyers, NSBS provides guidance at every step.
Starting
Starting can mean re-starting, too. Whether you’re studying, articling, relocating, or finding a new path, we have the tools you need.
Practising
Practising at the highest standards means you’re fully in practice, and want to ensure you’re delivering at the top of your profession.
Retiring Well
Retiring means more than succession planning. Leave your practice in the best shape possible for clients, colleagues, and community.
NSBS Committee Opportunities: Equity Committee Openings
The NSBS is seeking new members to join our Disability Equity Committee and Truth & Reconciliation Equity Committee.
NSBS Committee Opportunity: Court of Appeal Liaison Committee
The Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society’s Court of Appeal Liaison Committee is seeking new members.
Days of Significance – May 2026
The NSBS provides a monthly list of days of cultural, religious, and historical significance to support the diverse community of Nova Scotia.
NSBS 2025/26 Award Reception celebrates Professional Achievements
On April 23, 2026, the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society recognized the recipients of our 2025/26 NSBS awards and certificates.
Submissions Open – Race and the Law Essay Prize 2026
We’re seeking essay submissions for the 2026 Race & the Law Essay Prize, an initiative of the Society’s Racial Equity Committee.
Equity in Action Scenario: Client seeking Services (Answers)
Check out the NSBS answers to the Equity in Action Scenario: Client seeking Services. Be sure to review the full scenario before reading the answers.