The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada is preaching the need for improved access to justice for the public, particularly for civil and family matters.
Beverley McLachlin raised the issue on Saturday in a speech to the Canadian Bar Association's annual conference.
She said there are many issues preventing people from having their day in court, such a lack of judges, and the number of cases before the courts.
"I think that justice is something which every citizen - every person in Canada - is entitled to," McLachlin said after her speech. "(But) people have problems accessing the justice system."
"The cost and delay involved in litigation may prevent people who have legal grievances, who have suffered wrongs, from bringing those forward."
McLachlin said judicial leaders across the country must make an effort to ensure the court systems in their jurisdictions are running smoothly.
"Being able to access justice is fundamental to the rule of law."
