What we do as lawyers can be life affirming, helping our clients, and potentially shaping society for the public good. A career as a lawyer is an extraordinary calling, and to be a lawyer in the legal profession is a privilege. Nevertheless, the profession of law today is more challenging today than ever before. The…
It is important to understand that just because someone holds a position of leadership, does not mean they should. Not all leaders are created equal. The problem that is sometimes encountered is a “recognition problem” – we don’t always recognize good leaders from bad leaders, those that may have the necessary skill and ability, but…
In recent years, the number of news stories regarding ethical lapses at many leading organizations reminds us of the critical importance of a strong ethical culture. Regulators and enforcement authorities around the world are progressively of the view that an ethical and compliant business culture is one of the most important tasks for corporate boards…
Summary The Law Society of Upper Canada’s Professional Development & Competence Committee (“Committee”) has recommended the termination of the Law Practice Program (“LPP” or “LLP program”) at the conclusion of the 2016-2017 year. The Committee’s report – which includes information on its analysis and recommendations – will be debated by Convocation[1] on November 9, 2016….
The legal profession in Canada is in a period of major change. Once insulated, law has become one of the most competitive markets in the new normal.[1] In today’s evolving legal market, lawyers will require a new type of training to develop the skill set required to seize and participate confidently in this ‘new normal’…
If there is one unfortunate corporate theme for defining the first 16 years of this Century, it may well be corporate greed, negligence and malfeasance[1]. Many of the biggest corporate scandals in history happened during this time period, including: Enron (2001), HIH Insurance (2001), WorldCom (2002), Freddie Mac mortgage scandal (2003), AIG accounting scandal (2005),…
Leadership matters. In nearly every aspect of public and private life, the ability to inspire others to work towards positive and ethical change is critical to the success of organizations, businesses, political and governmental institutions, and communities. People want to believe in the ability of their leaders to guide change and achieve success. The same…
Surveys continue to find “overwhelming evidence that stress, anxiety and burnout are the most prevalent issues affecting the legal profession”, and that work life balance “remains a key issue for lawyers”.[1] Five early signs of chronic stress include:[2] Overreacting and snapping at people. Losing your sense of humour. Thinking about work 24/7. Decreased satisfaction. Life…
I was recently speaking with a good friend and respected civil trial lawyer. During our conversation we talked about litigation generally and trials and administrative hearings specifically. The discussion came around to the topic of whether some novice and intermediate litigation lawyers may be actively avoiding trials (to the detriment of their clients in some…
To be a lawyer in the legal profession is a privilege. Nevertheless, the profession of law is challenging. Deadlines are relentless and constant, and the hours long and taxing. There are demanding clients, partners, colleagues, opposing counsel and judges. Female lawyers may “face their own particular set of challenges. Even with the changing role of…
