Richard Wagner (judge)

Imagine having a super important job where you help make sure everyone in Canada plays by the rules. That's what Richard Wagner does! He's like the captain of Canada's highest court, called the Supreme Court.

He was born a long time ago, on April 2, 1957. He has a very special job because he helps decide what's fair and right for all Canadians. It's a big responsibility, and he's been doing it for many years!

Richard Wagner grew up and worked in a place called Quebec. He was a judge there, which means he helped decide cases in court. Then, he got an even bigger job!

He moved to the Supreme Court of Canada, which is the most important court in the whole country. Think of it like going from being the captain of your school's soccer team to being the captain of the national team! He became the Chief Justice, which is the head judge, in 2017.

Sometimes, really important jobs have to be done by someone else for a little while. In 2021, the Governor General of Canada, who is like the Queen's representative, had to leave. Guess who stepped in to do that job too?

Richard Wagner! For a few months, he was not only the Chief Justice but also the acting leader of Canada. That's like being the principal and the head teacher at the same time!

It shows how much people trust him.

The Chief Justice of Canada is a very special role. Richard Wagner helps make sure that the laws in Canada are fair and that everyone is treated equally. When there are big disagreements or tricky questions about the law, the Supreme Court, with him in charge, helps figure out the right answer.

It's like having a referee who makes sure everyone follows the rules of a game, but for the whole country!