The Canadian Bar Association (CBA)

The Canadian Bar Association (CBA) is a professional, voluntary organization formed in 1896 to serve as the voice for all members of the Canadian legal profession. The CBA is the largest professional association for lawyers in Canada. Our Association represents some 36,000 lawyers, judges, notaries, law teachers and law students from across Canada.   

The Association has been in continuous existence in its present form since 1914. It was incorporated by a Special Act of Parliament on April 15, 1921.

We are the face, the voice, and the future of this country’s leading legal minds.

As the standard-bearer for our profession, we have a national office in Ottawa and branches in every province and territory. Membership is voluntary in all but New Brunswick, where participation is mandatory through an agreement with the Law Society. Our members stand at the forefront of Canada’s legal profession.

An essential ally and advocate for our members, we promote fair justice systems, facilitate effective law reform, uphold equality in the legal profession and are devoted to eliminating discrimination. We are also the premiere provider of quality legal training and information.

We actively engage with the Canadian legal community in matters of common interest and mutual benefit.  We partner with leading thinkers and innovators within the legal profession, and we disseminate knowledge about global and national trends affecting your work. We are dedicated to supporting the rule of law and improving the administration of justice in Canada.  In short, we are the voice of Canada’s legal community.