Articles 2019

The typical articling term involves a steep learning curve and long hours. It can be difficult to think about or plan for life after that ten-month end date. But once you’ve run the gauntlet and been called to the bar, it’s time to transition into life as an associate. The following observations and tips, learned through experience, can ease this transition.

This article discusses pursuing a career in politics and public policy, the day to day work of a political staffer, and how a career in policy differs from law.

This article discusses practice tips and tricks on surviving the practice of law for young lawyers.

While many young lawyers benefit from a generalized legal practice, others decide to specialize early on in their career. Some of the reasons why a young lawyer may decide to specialize include (i) developing technical skills early on in the subject area; (2) developing an understanding of clients' specific interests and needs; and (3) receiving training by the best lawyers in the field.

On October 25, 2017, dozens of young lawyers gathered at the 3 Brewers on Sparks Street in Ottawa for the Young Lawyers Division – East’s kick-off networking event. Attendees enjoyed a craft beer tasting – with beer made exclusively by the 3 Brewers, appetizers, and plenty of lively conversation.

In recent years, the legal profession and the global community have taken a greater interest in addressing gender diversity. This article discusses how international trade, Canadian budgetary measures and securities regulation have each addressed gender in areas of major reform. This article is not intended to be a critical analysis of the covered initiatives, but instead a brief overview of what is being done in Canada about gender diversity on an economic level.

The Ontario Bar Association organized Technically Speaking: How Lawyers are using Technology Today on September 14, 2017. Attendees heard from three professionals, Erin Zipes, Thomas Bennett, and Alyssa Tomkins, about developments in the use and application of technology to our lives and the practice of law. It was an informative evening overall.

Navigating employment law issues can be daunting for employers. Human rights, health and safety, privacy, employment standards, accessibility, and so much more. In particular, the beginning and end of an employment relationship can present unforeseen challenges. This article briefly highlights these challenges and discusses the importance of an employment contract and some termination best practices.

Recently, I was provided with the opportunity to advance a constitutional challenge to section 31 of the Family Law Act on behalf of my client, Joshua Coates. The case – Coates v. Watson, 2017 ONCJ 454 - represents a victory for a variety of historically discriminated against groups, namely individuals with disabilities, children of LGBTQ same-sex parented families, custodial parents who are overwhelmingly women, and children born of unmarried parents.

When do you gown? A practical question not taught in law school, the following will provide a how to guide on the do’s and don’ts of dressing for court. The general rule is that if you are appearing before a Master you are not required to gown, whereas if you are appearing before a judge you are required to gown.