In the inaugural event of a new speaker series that provides a platform for lawyers to engage in discussions on complex and sensitive issues, Dr. Shirin Ebadi shared firsthand experience illuminating the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in Iran and the importance of defending human rights, demonstrating the power of conversation in promoting social change.

When I was speaking about my presidential mandate at the last OBA Council Meeting and soliciting feedback from members on where support was most needed, it was like the floodgates had opened – it was so validating to hear that situations or anxieties you imagined uniquely yours were, in fact, quite common.

Many of us once eagerly anticipating more real-world social and workplace interaction are now struggling to find our footing or feeling flummoxed about reclaiming old stomping grounds. Psychologist Dr. Noah Lazar lays out steps for alleviating the stress and conflicting, confusing emotions around returning to an in-person world.

Both purport to protect your loved ones in the case of your death. But only one will offer your beneficiaries the freedom to use those payments to truly suit their needs. That’s life.

In light of the recently enacted Active Offer of Services in French – Prescribed Measures, Ontario Regulation 544/22, the authors explore the characteristics of active offer in legislative texts, including: the offer to speak either official language precedes the request by the citizen at the first interaction; the service provided is equivalent in quality in both official languages; and the availability of services in both official languages across all forms of oral and written communication.

Insights from experts on the duty to consult that emerged during an OBA program designed to help lawyers better understand its nuances and implications.

In an informal meeting with the OBA’s Official Languages Committee, French Language Services Commissioner of Ontario Kelly Burke shared her thoughts on access to justice in French in the province, highlighting the importance of community engagement, education and legislative initiatives, notably the active offer of services in French.

Head of litigation at one of Canada’s largest telecommunications companies, Kristina Milbourn talks about being captivated by the complexities of law and practicing on Bay Street, the variety and opportunities to innovate she enjoys in her current in-house role, and her passion for science, sponsorship and social justice.

A discussion of the discriminatory impact of the single-family rule on the grounds of sexual orientation, the HRTO’s unsettled jurisdiction over the issue, and the broader implications for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

With threats against legal professionals escalating, experts in the fields of law enforcement, security, clinical psychology and conflict resolution weigh in on how lawyers can protect themselves and their staff from violence.