THUNDER BAY - Tracey Nieckarz has been practicing law for more than 23 years in Thunder Bay and her new appointment, which does bring its own set of challenges, is something she is honoured to take on.
On Thursday, Nieckarz was sworn in as a Justice in the Superior Court of Justice before family, friends, and members of the local law community at the Thunder Bay Courthouse.
“It’s very exciting,” she said. “It’s the pinnacle of the legal career. It’s a tremendous opportunity. I feel very honoured and very privileged. I know it comes with a great deal of responsibility, but I feel I am up for the challenge.”
Nieckarz is a graduate of Lakehead University and obtained her law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School. She was called to the bar in 2001 and joined the local law firm Buset and Partners.
For the past 23 years, she has practiced family law, commercial disputes, employment law, and estate law. She is a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada and the Thunder Bay Law Association.
As a judge in the Superior Court of Justice, Nieckarz will be overseeing a variety of cases, from criminal law to family law.
“A lot of the issues that become before the court are very difficult issues,” Nieckarz said. “This court does criminal cases, family law, custody access matters, civil cases, personal injuries. There are a lot of serious issues dealt with by this court.”
During the ceremony, Nieckarz recited the oath of the office before Chief Justice of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, Heather Smith, and Justice Bonnie Warkentin. She was then helped by her son and daughter to put on her new robes.
I’m feeling very honoured and also overwhelmed,” Nieckarz said. “There’s been a really enthusiastic response from the bar in Thunder Bay to my appointment. The other judges up here in Superior Court and Ontario Court, the Justices of the Peace, the staff, everyone has been so warm and welcoming. I’m very excited.”
