Former premier one of three new judges
Former PC colleagues applaud Hancock’s appointment to provincial court bench
Former Alberta premier Dave Hancock has become one of three new judges appointed to Alberta’s provincial court.
Hancock spent 18 years as an MLA before he retired in 2014, serving as justice minister and premier during his tenure.
His former Progressive Conservative colleagues said Hancock was an “excellent choice” for the bench.
Ric McIver, member for Calgary Hays, called Hancock “one of the finest gentlemen in Alberta,” and said he is one of the most qualified Albertans to serve on the bench.
Wayne Drysdale, member for Grand Prairie-Wapiti, joined McIver in applauding Hancock’s appointment.
“He is always listening to the people and their concerns, and he’s very knowledgeable and compassionate,” Drysdale said.
Acting Justice Minister Marlin Schmidt said Tuesday ’s three new judges will go some way to helping with backlogs at the court, though the province is still waiting on federal judicial appointments.
Marian De Souza and Robert Shaigec were also appointed to the bench.
De Souza received her bachelor of laws degree from the University of Leeds and became a member of the Alberta bar in 1996.
She began her legal career representing legal aid clients in civil, criminal, family and child protection matters, then spent 10 years with a Fortune 500 company, first as legal counsel and then as a director.
De Souza served in numerous roles with the Law Society of Alberta and the Canadian Bar Association, most recently as president and executive officer of the Alberta branch.
Shaigec received his bachelor of laws degree from the University of Alberta and became a member of the Alberta bar in 1997.
Hancock received his bachelor of laws degree from the University of Alberta and became a member of the Alberta bar in 1980.