Tuesday, September 15, 2020

The Honourable David Lametti, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, announced three new judges have joined the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario.

Justice Spencer Nicholson (LLB 1998) was born and raised in London, Ontario. He studied at Queen's University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science with Honours in 1995 and earned his Law Degree from the University of Toronto in 1998. He summered and articled at Fasken Campbell Godfrey (now Fasken Martineau). He was the Gold Medallist of the 41st Bar Admissions Course in London and received the Beverley E. Martin Genest Family Law Memorial Award.

Called to the Bar in 2000, Mr. Justice Nicholson returned to London to practise law alongside his father at the small litigation firm of Nicholson Smith. A partner since 2008 at Nicholson Smith & Partners LLP, Justice Nicholson's practice has focused on insurance defence and personal injury litigation, but also includes employment law. He enjoys trial work, both jury and non-jury.

Justice Nicholson has been a dedicated volunteer in the community throughout his legal career. Driven by his lifelong passion for sports, he has been committed to youth sports, coaching soccer for over a decade and managing a minor hockey team. He strives to be a positive influence for the diverse group of players and their families.

Justice Nicholson was raised by wonderful parents of very different backgrounds. His mother's family originally settled in rural Manitoba and his father's great-grandfather came to Canada to escape slavery via the Underground Railroad. He is proud of his biracial heritage.

Mr. Justice Nicholson replaces Madam Justice H.A. Rady (London), who elected to become a supernumerary judge effective June 15, 2020.

With files from the Department of Justice