Saskatchewan has appointed its first-ever associate judges as part of an effort to improve access to justice and reduce pressure on the Court of King’s Bench.

The new positions were created under legislation that took effect today (Thursday), allowing the court to expand its capacity in civil and family law matters.

Five associate judges have been appointed, including Saskatoon’s Cynthia Yelland.

The province says the move modernizes Saskatchewan’s court system and brings it in line with structures already used in other Canadian provinces.