Modernizing Administrative Justice – Judicial Review in 2026: What You Need to Know

As Canada’s administrative law landscape continues to evolve, staying informed on the latest refinements in administrative justice remains essential for tribunal members, decision-makers, and practitioners. To help you stay current on these developments, LexisNexis® Canada has launched its Modernizing Administrative Justice webinar series, beginning with Part I: Judicial Review in 2026, a timely conversation on how administrative justice is adapting in the post‑Vavilov era.

This inaugural session brings together leading voices in administrative law to reflect on the enduring influence of the Supreme Court of Canada’s landmark decision in Canada (Minister of Citizenship and Immigration) v. Vavilov. Nearly seven years after its release, Vavilov continues to shape the way courts, tribunals, and practitioners understand reasonableness review, procedural fairness, and the culture of justification that underscores modern administrative decision‑making.

Why Judicial Review Still Matters in 2026

Judicial review remains a cornerstone of Canada’s administrative justice system. Following years of interpreting and applying the principles set out in Vavilov, questions have emerged regarding its consistency, practicality, and application across diverse statutory schemes.

As highlighted in the webinar, Vavilov continues to guide tribunals in crafting transparent, intelligible, and justified decisions, while also influencing how reviewing courts assess both procedural fairness and substantive review. Understanding these developments is essential for tribunal members and practitioners seeking to anticipate how decision‑making standards will evolve in the years ahead.

Expert Perspectives Shaping the Conversation

This first session features insights from leading voices in administrative law, including:

• The Honourable Justice Guy Régimbald, whose recognized publications and expertise have contributed meaningfully to Canada’s administrative law landscape; and
• Professor Paul Daly, one of the country’s most influential and respected scholars on administrative law and the modern administrative state.

Their combined perspectives offer a nuanced look at how tribunals and courts are interpreting Vavilov, and what challenges and opportunities lie ahead for administrative justice.

A Critical Moment for Administrative Decision‑Makers

Administrative bodies make decisions that shape the everyday lives of Canadians, from human rights and immigration to professional regulation and public services. In this context, the need for coherent, transparent, and well‑reasoned decisions has never been greater.

Whether you are a tribunal member, practitioner, policy advisor, or decision-maker, Modernizing Administrative Justice: Part I provides practical, grounded insights supported by leading scholarship and real‑world experience.

If you missed the live session, you can still access the full discussion anytime.
Sign up now for instant access to the webinar “Modernizing Administrative Justice: Part I – Judicial Review in 2026”.