The Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to congratulate James David Boyd Eaton, KC, the distinguished recipient of this year’s Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa.

James David Boyd Eaton, KC, has built a distinguished career marked by professional excellence, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the legal profession and the administration of justice. Called to the Bar in 1980, Mr. Eaton has earned widespread respect for his sound judgment, deep understanding of the law, and unwavering dedication to ethical practice.

A recipient of the Law Society’s Gordon M. Stirling Distinguished Service Award in 2015, Mr. Eaton has contributed significantly to legal education and professional regulation. For more than three decades, he has served the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador with dedication, particularly in the areas of admissions, education, and discipline. His mentorship of articling students and young lawyers has had a lasting and meaningful impact on the profession.

Mr. Eaton has also been a devoted legal educator, teaching criminal law and criminal procedure at Memorial University of Newfoundland for over 30 years and serving as a faculty member of the Federation of Law Societies’ National Criminal Law Program for nearly as long.

Well known for his consistent presence at Law Society events—including Call-to-Bar ceremonies, AGMs, and Benchers’ receptions—Mr. Eaton is a respected and reliable figure in the legal community.

As noted in the nomination for his honorary degree: “He represents the very best of us.” That sentiment was echoed in numerous letters of support.

On April 11, 2025, the Benchers of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador unanimously approved the conferral of the degree of Doctor of Laws (honoris causa) in recognition of Mr. Eaton’s remarkable contributions to the profession and to the justice system.

Congratulations David, on this prestigious and well earned accolade.

Posted: June 6, 2025