Lawyers Appointed to the King’s Counsel

Press Release

March 4, 2026

Fourteen Nova Scotia lawyers are being recognized for their outstanding contributions to the legal community through the King’s counsel designation.

Attorney General and Minister of Justice Scott Armstrong announced the appointments today, March 4.

“I want to sincerely congratulate this group of distinguished lawyers who have demonstrated professional excellence,” said Minister Armstrong. “I thank you for your exemplary commitment to the legal profession and your contributions to your communities.”

The appointees are:

• Ryan Troy Brothers, Nova Scotia Department of Justice
• Level Yau Yan Chan, Stewart McKelvey
• Peter James Dostal, Nova Scotia Public Prosecution Service
• Elaine Nicole Gibney, Elaine Gibney Law
• David G. Hutt, Burchell Wickwire Bryson LLP
• Lyndsay C. Jardine, Wagner’s Law Firm
• Cheryl Knockwood, Membertou First Nation
• Donald Fraser MacFadyen, Stewart McKelvey
• Amy Elizabeth MacGregor, Cox & Palmer
• James (Jim) O’Neil, O’Neil Law Offices
• Kelly Rowlett, Nova Scotia Legal Aid
• W. Harry Thurlow, Cox & Palmer
• Jennifer Hamilton Upham, Patterson Law
• Daniel Wallace, McInnes Cooper.

The King’s counsel designation is awarded annually to members of the legal profession to recognize exceptional merit and outstanding contributions to the legal community.

A formal ceremony to honour the appointees will be held this spring.

Quick Facts:

• an independent advisory committee makes King’s counsel recommendations to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice
• criteria include a minimum of 15 years as a member of the Nova Scotia bar, demonstrated professional integrity and good character

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