The Trudeau government has named a replacement for Beverley McLachlin who retires Friday after 17 years as chief justice of the Supreme Court of Canada.

It’s Quebec jurist Richard Wagner.

(Supreme Court of Canada)

The 60-year-old is the senior Quebec judge on the bench, nominated to the high court five years go by former prime minister Stephen Harper.

Before his judicial appointment, Wagner had a commercial litigation practice focusing on real estate and professional liability insurance.

He’ll be sworn in December 18.

In announcing Wagner’s appointment, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he has ”utmost confidence” in his abililty to lead the highest court in the country.

”The judiciary, the legal profession, and all Canadians will be well served by his dedicaton to upholding the laws and Constitution upon which this country is founded,” said Trudeau.