The legal community in Alberta and across Canada is mourning the passing of the Honourable Ritu Khullar, Chief Justice of Alberta and Chief Justice of the Courts of Appeal of Nunavut and the Northwest Territories, who died on September 3, 2026.

According to the Court of Appeal of Alberta, Khullar died surrounded by members of her family. Her passing has prompted tributes from judges, legal professionals, government officials and others who recognized her decades of service to the justice system and her contributions to public life.

Khullar was widely regarded as a respected jurist whose career reflected a commitment to fairness, integrity and public service. Colleagues described her as a thoughtful leader who understood the impact that legal decisions can have on individuals, communities and society as a whole.

Remembering Chief Justice Ritu Khullar

Before joining the judiciary, Khullar built a distinguished legal career spanning more than two decades in private practice. She became recognized as a leading lawyer in Alberta, particularly in areas involving public law, labour and employment, privacy, administrative law, human rights and constitutional matters.

Throughout her legal career, Khullar appeared before courts and tribunals across Canada, including the Supreme Court of Canada. Her work established her reputation as a skilled advocate with a strong commitment to protecting rights and advancing the principles of justice.

Khullar was appointed to the Alberta Court of King’s Bench in March 2017. In 2018, she was appointed to the Courts of Appeal of Alberta, Nunavut and the Northwest Territories, beginning her service as an appellate judge.

On November 28, 2022, she was appointed Chief Justice of Alberta and Chief Justice of the Courts of Appeal of Nunavut and the Northwest Territories. In those roles, she focused on strengthening the administration of justice, supporting judicial independence and maintaining public confidence in the courts.

Tributes Following Ritu Khullar’s Passing

Following news of her death, tributes highlighted Khullar’s professionalism, compassion and dedication to the legal system.

The Court of Appeal of Alberta described her as a valued colleague and leader whose work demonstrated a deep understanding of the human consequences behind legal decisions.

Canada’s Department of Justice also paid tribute to Khullar, recognizing her contributions as a jurist and public servant. Officials highlighted her commitment to fairness, access to justice, the rule of law and judicial independence.

Her colleagues remembered her not only for her legal knowledge but also for her humility, kindness and willingness to support others within the profession.

Ritu Khullar Cause of Death

The specific cause of Honourable Ritu Khullar’s death has not been publicly disclosed in the available information.

No illness, medical condition or other circumstance surrounding her passing has been confirmed by her family or official representatives. Any additional details regarding her death should only be attributed to verified statements from authorized sources.

Family, Friends and Legal Community Mourn

Ritu Khullar’s death represents a significant loss for her family, colleagues and the broader legal community.

Her career was marked by decades of service, from her years as a lawyer advocating on complex legal matters to her time serving on Alberta’s highest court. Those who worked alongside her are remembering the knowledge, leadership and compassion she brought to the justice system.

As members of the judiciary and legal profession reflect on her life, they continue to honor the impact she made through her work and her dedication to public service.

Funeral and Memorial Information

Details regarding funeral arrangements, visitation or memorial services for Honourable Ritu Khullar have not been provided in the available information.

The family will share official details regarding obituary information, funeral arrangements and memorial services when they are ready to do so.

The Information on this website is for general information purposes only and not all information is accurate. Pending the family’s release of official obituary, funeral and memorial details, readers should understand that some information may remain incomplete or subject to confirmation.

Legacy of Honourable Ritu Khullar

Ritu Khullar leaves behind a lasting legacy within Alberta’s justice system and across Canada’s legal community.

Her career reflected a commitment to fairness, equality and the responsible exercise of public authority. Through her work as an advocate and judge, she influenced the lives of many people and contributed to the continued development of Canadian law.

As her family, friends and colleagues mourn her passing, Chief Justice Ritu Khullar will be remembered for her intellect, integrity, compassion and dedication to justice.