On September 21, 2023, amendments to the Court of King’s Bench Rules through regulation M.R. 143/2023. This regulatory change modifies terminology and roles within the court structure by replacing the title “master” with “associate judge.”

The primary focus of the amendment is the renaming of judicial roles. The term “master” has been entirely replaced by “associate judge” throughout the Court of King’s Bench Rules, specifically in Manitoba Regulation 553/88. This change is reflected across various sections of the regulation, including definitions and procedural rules. For instance, Rule 1.03 now defines “associate judge” as a judge appointed under section 11.1 of the Act, which includes the senior associate judge.

The amendment impacts numerous rules and sub rules within the court’s procedural framework. For example, in Rule 3.03(2) and Rule 25.11, every instance of “master” has been replaced with “associate judge,” reinforcing the updated terminology. Similarly, Rule 37 has undergone extensive amendments to ensure that the role of “associate judge” is consistently applied throughout the relevant sections.

The amendments extend to numerous court forms, with “master” replaced by “associate judge” in a variety of documents, including Forms 19D, 37A, 42A, and others. This comprehensive update ensures that all court-related documents accurately reflect the new terminology, thereby eliminating any potential confusion regarding the roles within the court.

This shift from “master” to “associate judge” aligns with a broader trend in judicial systems aimed at modernizing language and making judicial titles more reflective of their roles. The term “associate judge” is more descriptive of the responsibilities and functions these judicial officers fulfill, which could enhance public understanding of the court system.

The amendments encapsulated in M.R. 143/2023 signify a fundamental shift in the Court of King’s Bench’s procedural rules, with the replacement of “master” by “associate judge” aimed at enhancing clarity and consistency in the judicial process. By adopting this change, the Manitoba court system not only modernizes its language but also reaffirms its dedication to improving accessibility and understanding within the legal framework. The amendments impact a wide range of rules and forms, demonstrating the court’s proactive approach in adapting to contemporary judicial needs.

Manitoba (143/2023) September 21, 2023