Public discourse and civility lies at the heart of our democracy and our legal profession in Canada, the U.S., the UK, and Australia. Unfortunately there appears to be less civility in society generally today, less courtesy, fewer manners. In the political arena and in public discourse, the rhetoric is harsher and the decibels are higher,…
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…
We sleep soundly in our beds because rough men stand ready in the night to visit violence on those who would do us harm. ― Winston Churchill 10. Turkey – frontline personnel: 410,500; budget: $18.2 billion. 9. United Kingdom – frontline personnel: 146,980; budget: $60.5 billion. 8. Italy – frontline personnel: 320,000; budget: $34 billion. 7. South…
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…
