Alina, John, and Danielle defend prisoners' rights at Supreme Court of Canada
AMLC lawyers Alina Chekh, John Trueman, and Danielle Wierenga will represent the West Coast Prison Justice Society / Prisoners' Legal Services at the Supreme Court of Canada on May 13, 2025. This is the third appearance by AMLC lawyers at the Supreme Court of Canada in less than two years.
The appeal, Frank Dorsey and Ghassan Salah v. Attorney General of Canada, asks whether the ancient writ of habeas corpus should be available to incarcerated persons who have been wrongfully denied reclassification and transfer to a lower security level. The West Coast Prison Justice Society was granted leave to intervene to explain the impact the court's decision will have on prisoners in maximum security institutions.
In his oral submissions to the Court, John will explain how a wrongful reclassification and transfer decision is as impactful — and as illegal — as wrongful imprisonment itself, and habeas corpus provides a timely, accessible, and effective remedy for such injustices.
Allen / McMillan Litigation Counsel's award-winning pro bono practice often includes public interest interventions for organizations such as the West Coast Prison Justice Society, who offer valuable perspectives in the development of the law. AMLC lawyers previously represented the Society in British Columbia (Attorney General) v. Council of Canadians with Disabilities, 2022 SCC 27, which clarified the law of public interest standing in court proceedings.
The Supreme Court of Canada's hearing on May 13 will be webcast live.