Building Justice and Shaping the Evolution of Law with Frank Iacobucci

Building justice and shaping the evolution of law is an ongoing pursuit—one that Frank Iacobucci has dedicated his life to. In this episode of Obiter, we explore his remarkable career and enduring impact on Canadian law reform. A graduate of UBC and Cambridge, Iacobucci began his legal career in New York before returning to Canada to teach law in Toronto. He later became Dean of the University of Toronto's Law School, moved into university leadership, and ultimately took on key roles in government and the judiciary. His path led him to Ottawa, where he served as Deputy Minister of Justice, Chief Justice of the Federal Court, and then Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada from 1991 to 2004. Beyond the bench, Iacobucci has shaped justice through the academy, reviews and inquiries, and as the federal government's chief negotiator for the Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement. In this conversation, he reflects on his career, the evolution of law, and the legacy he hopes to leave for future jurists. His insights offer a profound look at law as a force for justice, reconciliation, and progress. Photo: Torys LLP