Call to the Bar Ceremony
2023-02-24 10:00 - 14:00 UTC
The Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador invites the public to view a Call to the Bar ceremony
Date: February 24, 2023
Time: 10:00 am
Location: Courtroom No. 1, Supreme Court, 309 Duckworth St., St. John’s, NL
Following the ceremony, there will be a reception at the Law Society
Location: 3rd floor, 196-198 Water St., St. John’s, NL

Labour, Employment & Administrative Law: A Review of 2020-2022 Decisions
2023-03-01 14:00 - 16:00 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Complimentary wine and cheese social to follow at 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Seminar Overview:
There were a number of noteworthy developments in labour, employment and administrative law in recent years. This seminar will highlight decisions from Newfoundland and Labrador and other Canadian jurisdictions in 2020, 2021 & 2022. There will also be a discussion regarding the Vavilov standard of judicial review and its application. A wine & cheese reception will follow.
John Whelan – Arbitrator, Mediator, Workplace Investigator (Principal – Whelan Dispute Resolution)
John holds a Commerce degree from Memorial (2005) and a LL.B. from UNB (2008). Called to the Bar in 2009, John spent 12 years as in-house counsel and Executive Director of a large community care organization before making the shift to a neutral practice. John has extensive practical experience in employment, labour, and municipal law.
Paula Schumph, General Counsel, Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees (NAPE)
Paula completed degrees in Business Administration (Acadia) and Law (Dalhousie) prior to her call to the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar in 1996. She has been in-house counsel to NAPE for 21 years. Immediately prior to joining NAPE, Paula represented employers who were members of the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Boards Association.
Darren Stratton, McInnes Cooper (Employer Counsel)
Darren completed degrees in Commerce (Memorial) and Law (Dalhousie) prior to his call to the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar in 1993. A partner with McInnes Cooper, Darren practices management-side labour and employment law and is a former leader of the firm’s Labour and Employment Practice Group. Darren is an employer representative on the Labour Management Arbitration Committee established under the NL Labour Relations Act.
Moderator: David Conway, Arbitrator and Adjudicator
David is the immediate past Chairperson of the NL Labour Relations Board and an arbitrator and adjudicator. David has over twenty years of experience in labour law and administrative law, both as counsel and as a neutral decision maker. David obtained his B.A. from McGill University (’96) and his LL.B. from the University of New Brunswick (‘99) before being called to the Ontario Bar and the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar.
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Registration Fee: $115.00 ($100.00 + HST) HST # R108086463
Registration Includes:

Seminar attendance and materials
Attendance at wine and cheese social

PLEASE NOTE: THE REGISTRATION PROCESS IS ONLINE ONLY. TO REGISTER FOR THIS SEMINAR, PLEASE CLICK THE FOLLOWING LINK:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_z7RmMjR0RX2mSMAsdGeXow
PLEASE NOTE: YOUR SPACE WILL NOT BE CONFIRMED UNTIL PAYMENT IS RECEIVED AND REFUNDS WILL NOT BE ISSUED FOR CANCELLATION AFTER FEBRUARY 28, 2023.
CPD Credit: 2 hours

AI and Lawyers: A Beginner’s Guide - The Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador
2023-05-24 12:00 - 13:00 (America/St_Johns) | Online
Seminar Overview
AI has now replaced Blockchain, Web3, and NFTs as the “must haves” in a lawyer’s toolbox. But what is AI? And does it really have any utility for lawyers? If so, what would be the uses? This one-hour lunch and learn webinar will be a reality check on AI for lawyers, and give participants an overview of what’s happening and where it may go – including a discussion on GPT-4. There will also be time for questions.
Seminar Presenter: Mitchell Kowalski
Mitchell Kowalski is the Visiting Professor of Legal Innovation at the University of Calgary Law School, a Fastcase 50 Global Legal Innovator, a Fellow of the College of Law Practice Management, and the author of the critically acclaimed books, Avoiding Extinction: Reimagining Legal Services for the 21st Century, and The Great Legal Reformation: Notes from the Field. He was awarded the Ontario Bar Association President’s Award for “Leadership in Justice Innovation,” and is often hired by law firms around the world in connection with their innovation efforts. Follow him on Twitter @mekowalski or visit his website www.kowalski.ca.
Registration Fee: $57.50 ($50.00 + HST) HST # R108086463
To register for this seminar, please click the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CngrGjirSs6vvGzWZYLLiQ
CPD Credit: 1 hour

Annual General Meeting - Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador
2023-06-09 14:00 - 15:30 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
The Annual General Meeting of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador will be held, in person, at 2:00 pm on Friday, 9 June 2023 at the Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s.
Please RSVP by 12:00 noon, Wednesday, 7 June to Erin Rowe at erowe@lsnl.ca if you plan to attend the AGM.

90th ANNIVERSARY OF LOUISE M. SAUNDERS’ CALL TO THE BAR
2023-10-27 16:30 - 18:30 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
The Law Society’s SS Daisy Legal History Committee is launching the Women’s Legal History Project and celebrating the first woman admitted to the Bar, Louise M. Saunders, 90 years after her call.
Louise M. Saunders was born in Greenspond, Bonavista Bay. She studied law under Sir Richard Squires, and in 1933, she became the province’s first woman lawyer. In 1964, Ms. Saunders was raised to the silk, becoming the first woman appointed Queen’s Counsel. Ms. Saunders was a practising lawyer until her death in 1969. Besides her career, Louise was active in the community and a talented painter.
This event is being held in October, which is recognized as Women’s History Month in Canada. In 1992, the Government of Canada designated October as Women’s History Month, marking the beginning of an annual celebration of the outstanding achievements of women and girls throughout Canada’s history.
The Committee is thrilled to welcome Chief Justice Deborah E. Fry as guest speaker at this event. Chief Justice Fry was appointed to the Trial Division of the Supreme Court of Newfoundland on March 30, 2007, and was appointed as the first female Chief Justice of the Court of Appeal on June 22, 2018.
Please send your RSVP to Leah at lgriffiths@lsnl.ca to register for the event.
Guest Speaker: Chief Justice Deborah E. Fry
Chief Justice Fry graduated from the University of Saskatchewan in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She then worked as a public health nurse in Saskatoon and subsequently in Australia where she taught at the Western Australian School of Nursing in Perth before contemplating a career in law. Chief Justice Fry graduated from the University of Saskatchewan School of Law in 1980 then moved to this Province. She articled at the Department of Justice and was called to the Bar in 1981.
Starting as a solicitor in the Department of Justice, Chief Justice Fry’s organizational ability, intelligence, and work ethic were soon recognized. She served as Associate Deputy Minister of Justice from 1987 to 1991 and was Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour Relations from 1991 to 1996. In March 1996, Chief Justice Fry was appointed Deputy Minister of Education where she played a critical role in the reform of the province’s denominational education system. She served as Deputy Minister of Human Resources and Employment until 1999 and as Deputy Minister of Health & Community Services.
On February 12, 2001, Chief Justice Fry became Clerk of the Executive Council and Secretary to Cabinet, the first woman to hold such a position. Chief Justice Fry co-founded the Centre for Innovative Dispute Resolution; received the YMCA/YWCA of St. John’s Women of Distinction Award and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal; and was twice named one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women’s Executive Network.
Chief Justice Fry is on the board of directors of the National Judges Counselling Program and previously served as president of the Program. She also served on the board of directors of the Canadian chapter of the International Association of Women Judges.
Since taking office, Chief Justice Fry has done significant work related to the provision of legal assistance for incarcerated self-represented litigants, including improving ways to distribute legal information and streamlining processes for connecting self-represented litigants to legal counsel or pro bono services.

West Coast Benchers’ Reception
2023-12-06 17:00 - 23:00 (America/St_Johns)
The President and Benchers of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador request the pleasure of your company at the West Coast Benchers’ Reception. To view the invitation, please [click here].
Benchers’ Reception
Bootleg Brew Co., 92 West Street, Corner Brook
Wednesday, the 6th day of December 2023
5:00 pm to 11:00 pm
You do not need to RSVP for this event.

Benchers' Meeting
2023-12-11 08:00 - 17:00 (America/St_Johns) | Online
Please note that the next Benchers’ meeting will take place on Monday, 11 December 2023. Anyone wishing to attend a Benchers’ meeting:

is required to provide notice of attendance to the Law Society by emailing erowe@lsnl.ca;
will not be permitted to use audio or video recording devices or communication devices during the meeting;
shall not speak, unless invited to do so by the president;
must observe and obey all rulings of the president; and
shall leave if the meeting is declared closed to the public or if asked to do so by the President.

At this time, attendance shall be via Zoom. An invite will be provided upon receipt of an attendance notice. Agendas will be posted on the Law Society website in advance of each meeting and the Minutes for the Public portion of each meeting will also be posted on the website. Please note that members are invited to attend the Public portion of the Benchers’ meeting, however, the In-Camera portion of the meeting is closed to the public.
Should you wish to attend the Public portion of the Benchers’ meeting on 11 December 2023, please email erowe@lsnl.ca no later than 12:00 pm, Friday, 1 December 2023.

Call to the Bar
2024-02-23 10:00 - 17:00 (America/St_Johns)
Details to follow.

Benchers' Meeting
2024-04-15 | Online
Please note that the next Benchers’ meeting will take place on Monday, 15 April 2024. Anyone wishing to attend a Benchers’ meeting:
1. is required to provide notice of attendance to the Law Society by emailing erowe@lsnl.ca;
2. will not be permitted to use audio or video recording devices or communication devices during the meeting;
3. shall not speak, unless invited to do so by the President;
4. must observe and obey all rulings of the President; and
5. shall leave if the meeting is declared closed to the public or if asked to do so by the President.
At this time, attendance shall be via Zoom. An invite will be provided upon receipt of an attendance notice. Agendas will be posted on the Law Society website in advance of each meeting and the Minutes for the Public portion of each meeting will also be posted on the website. Please note that members are invited to attend the Public portion of the Benchers’ meeting, however, the In-Camera portion of the meeting is closed to the public.
Should you wish to attend the Public portion of the Benchers’ meeting on 15 April 2024, please email erowe@lsnl.ca no later than 12:00 pm, Wednesday, 10 April 2024.

Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador Annual General Meeting
2024-06-07 14:00 - 16:00 (America/St_Johns)
The Annual General Meeting of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador will be held, in person, at 2:00 pm on Friday, 7 June 2024 at the Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s.
Please RSVP by noon, Wednesday, 5 June 2024, to Erin Rowe at erowe@lsnl.ca if you plan to attend the AGM.

Municipal Issues Arising in Real Estate Transactions
2024-08-28 09:30 - 12:00 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Seminar Overview
Join us for our upcoming seminar focused on municipal issues impacting real estate transactions in Newfoundland and Labrador. This session will explore critical topics such as expropriation (including an overview of the recent Lynch and Shute decisions), tax sales, non-conformity, subdivision/consolidation, and the purchase and sale of municipal land. Our presenters will also discuss notable provisions of the Urban Rural and Planning Act (including the Occupancy and Maintenance Regulations), the St. John’s Act, and the Towns and Local Service Districts Act. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on how these issues influence real estate transactions and learn strategies to navigate potential challenges.
Seminar Presenters
Linda Bishop – Senior Legal Counsel, City of St. John’s
Justin Hewitt – Associate, Stewart McKelvey
Lorilee Sharpe – City Solicitor, City of Corner Brook
Andrew Woodland – Legal Counsel, City of St. John’s
Registration Fee
$172.50 ($150.00 + HST)
HST # R108086463
To register for this seminar, please click here.
CPD Credit
2.5 hours

Special Event to Launch the 1949 Newfoundland Law Reports
2024-11-05 17:00 - 19:00 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
The S.S. Daisy Legal History Committee is pleased to announce a special event to launch the 1949 Newfoundland Law Reports (17 Newfoundland Law Reports). The Newfoundland Law Reports currently span from 1817 to 1948. Cases from 1949 to 1971 were not formally published. Cases after 1971 were published by the Newfoundland and Prince Edward Island Reports. Further volumes covering 1950 to 1971 will be published when complete.
This 1949 volume represents a new standard in legal case reporting, featuring introductory essays, annotations, editors’ notes, photographs, artwork, and other unique additions.
We look forward to welcoming you to this special event on 5 November 2024, at 5:00 p.m. held on the 3rd floor of the Law Society Building.
Click here to view the poster.

Dramatic Reading of Leviathan Unbound
2024-11-20 19:00 - 21:00 (America/St_Johns)
Join Us for a Dramatic Reading of Leviathan Unbound

Location: LSPU Hall
Admission: Free and open to the public
The S.S. Daisy Legal History Committee invites you to a dramatic reading of Leviathan Unbound: Currie et al. v. Macdonald et al., a play by John Joy. This compelling work revisits a pivotal 1948 legal case in which six members of Newfoundland’s House of Assembly and Legislative Council challenged the legitimacy of the National Convention and confederation referendum. This historic case ultimately sought a court declaration deeming the actions of the Governor and Commissioners of Government unconstitutional.
This production, co-produced and co-directed by Alex Jessome, provides a unique glimpse into a crucial moment in Newfoundland’s legal history. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this powerful story!

View the poster for Leviathan Unbound here

Enhancing Trial Processes: The Role of Amicus Curiae and Case Management
2025-01-17 09:30 - 12:00 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Social Reception to Follow
Seminar Overview
This seminar explores two critical tools for managing complex legal proceedings in the post-Jordan era: the role of amicus curiae and the case management process in the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador. John Brooks, a senior lawyer with extensive experience as amicus curiae in high-profile cases, will discuss the appointment process, responsibilities, and ethical challenges of the role, highlighting its practical applications in court proceedings. Chief Justice Raymond Whalen will lead the second part, offering insights into the resolution-focused case management process, its practical applications, and opportunities for enhancing trial efficiency. Attendees will benefit from real-world examples, a deeper understanding of these tools, and an interactive Q&A session to explore practical improvements.
In-person attendance is strongly encouraged where possible. Attendees are invited to stay after the seminar for an informal social and lunch, featuring sandwiches from Manna Bakery, beverages, and other refreshments.
Seminar Presenters
The Honourable Chief Justice Raymond P. Whalen
The Honourable Raymond P. Whalen was born in Spaniard’s Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador. He holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education from Memorial University of Newfoundland, as well as a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New Brunswick. Called to the Bar of Newfoundland and Labrador in 1979, Chief Justice Whalen began his career as an Associate and later Partner at White Ottenheimer and Baker (1979-2000), where he developed significant expertise in corporate, commercial, and finance law. From 2000 to 2005, he served as Executive Vice-President, President, and General Counsel for Guigné International Limited.
Chief Justice Whalen was appointed as a puisne judge of the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador, Trial Division, in 2008 for the Judicial Centre of Gander, later transferring to St. John’s in 2014. On December 11, 2014, Justice Whalen was appointed Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador, where he continues to provide leadership and guidance in the administration of justice.
John Brooks, KC
John Brooks, KC, is a distinguished criminal law practitioner based in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. He earned his LLB from the University of New Brunswick in 1978, was called to the Bar of Newfoundland and Labrador in 1979, and was appointed King’s Counsel in 2002. John brings over 42 years of experience to the legal profession. Throughout his career, he has served as a Provincial Crown Attorney, Federal Crown Attorney, and, since 2012, as a Federal-Provincial Crown Agent and defence counsel. Since 2017, John has been appointed amicus curiae approximately 18 times by the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador, contributing his expertise to a range of complex legal matters.
Registration Fee: $115.00 ($100.00 + HST) HST # R108086463
Registration Includes:

Seminar attendance and materials
Snacks and refreshments;
Attendance at a reception with refreshments

PLEASE NOTE: THE REGISTRATION PROCESS IS ONLINE ONLY. TO REGISTER FOR THIS SEMINAR, PLEASE CLICK THE FOLLOWING LINK:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_YUUQy8DzQDKpARIX7yHBiw
CPD Credit: 2.5 hours

From Advocate to Adjudicator - Putting it in Neutral
2025-01-24 14:00 - 16:00 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Seminar Overview
This seminar will provide insights into becoming and being a neutral decision maker from an administrative law perspective.
There is no single road map for lawyers who want to become a neutral decision-maker or an independent adjudicator. Being a neutral is an uncertain and unfamiliar role for many lawyers. This CLE seminar will provide attendees with insights into how lawyers become neutral adjudicators and what it is like to act in a neutral role. This seminar will use a panel discussion format with the presenters responding to various questions from the moderator. The topics to be canvassed will include:

Why and how a lawyer becomes a neutral decision-maker;
How becoming a neutral changes a lawyer’s career path;
The positives and negatives of being a neutral as opposed to an advocate;
The “dos” and “don’ts” for lawyers who appear before neutral decision-makers; and
What writing decisions is like, particularly when facing appellate/judicial review.

In-person attendance is strongly encouraged where possible. Attendees are invited to stay after the seminar for a reception with refreshments.
Seminar Moderator
Hon. David Conway, Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador (Trial Division)
Justice David Conway is a graduate of McGill University (B.A.) and the University of New Brunswick (LL.B.). He articled with Lerners LLP in London, Ontario, before being called to the Bar in Ontario and the Bar in Newfoundland and Labrador. Justice Conway spent his legal career working in-house as a labour lawyer with the Registered Nurses’ Union of Newfoundland and Labrador until 2017, when he was appointed as the Chairperson of the Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Relations Board. Following the completion of his term as Chairperson of the Labour Relations Board he acted as a labour arbitrator, a neutral adjudicator and independent legal counsel until his appointment to the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador in 2023.
Seminar Presenters
Sheilagh Murphy, K.C., MacNab, Fagan & Murphy
Sheilagh Murphy is a partner with MacNab, Fagan & Murphy and a seasoned practitioner in labour, employment, and civil litigation. Called to the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar in 1999, she has had a diverse legal career that includes serving as Chair of the NL Labour Relations Board from 2009 – 2017 and providing neutral adjudication services as an arbitrator, mediator, and workplace investigator. Sheilagh is an external adjudicator for the Canada Industrial Relations Board, Chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel, and a member of the NL roster of labour arbitrators.
A dedicated volunteer, Sheilagh served as President of the Canadian Bar Association NL Branch (2006), held leadership roles with the CBA’s national committees, and served on the Board of the Canadian Bar Insurance Association (Lawyers Financial) from 2007-2021 (Chair 2017-19). She is currently a member of the NL Labour Management Arbitration Committee, a Governor of the Law Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador and a Bencher of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Hon. David Orsborn, Benson Buffett PLC Inc.
The Honourable David B. Orsborn is Counsel with Benson Buffett PLC and a former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador. With a distinguished legal career spanning over four decades, including 27 years on the bench, five of which were as Chief Justice, he brings extensive experience in judicial dispute resolution and alternative dispute resolution. David has served in key roles for several prominent commissions, including Chair of the Royal Commission on Hospital and Nursing Home Costs (Newfoundland), Chair of the 2020 Statutory Review of the NL Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, Associate Counsel to the Royal Commission on the Ocean Ranger Marine Disaster, Co-counsel to the Royal Commission on the Donald Marshall, Jr., Prosecution, and Member of the Triennial Commission on Federal Judges’ Salaries and Benefits. An award-winning legal scholar and sought-after speaker, he continues to contribute to the profession through his expertise in fair and efficient dispute resolution.
Christopher Peddigrew, K.C., Peddigrew Wade Law
Chris Peddigrew, K.C. graduated from Memorial University of Newfoundland with a Bachelor of Commerce (Co-operative) Honours degree in 1999, and in 2003 graduated from Dalhousie University Schulich School of Law. In 2004, Chris was called to the Bar in this Province and became a member of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador. Since that time, Chris has been in private practice, currently as a partner in the firm Peddigrew Wade. Chris’ practice is focused primarily in the areas of labour and employment law and alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration. Chris is an Arbitrator on the provincial roster of labour arbitrators and a Vice-Chair with the Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Relations Board. In addition to his labour and employment law work, Chris also practices in the areas of personal injury, business law, real estate transactions, and general litigation.
Chris has volunteered with a number of community organizations over the years including Chair of the Board of the St. Patrick’s Mercy Home Foundation and a Director with Choices for Youth. Chris is currently an Advisory Board member with the Newfoundland and Labrador Heart and Stroke Foundation and a volunteer coach with Avalon-Celtics Minor Hockey Association.
Registration Fee
$115.00 ($100.00 + HST)
HST # R108086463
To register for this seminar, please click the following link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Zx-_boKMSHqnghD8yDmKWg

CPD Credit: 2 hours

Employment Law: How to Not Get Tricked by Kyle and Chris
2025-03-31 09:30 - 12:00 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Date: Monday, March 31, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 12:00 pm (Social to Follow)
Place: 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street
Seminar Overview:
Join Chris King, K.C. and Kyle Rees for an issue-spotting primer on common employment law missteps from both sides of the termination table. This session will cover issues for employer-side counsel, like how to properly prepare a termination letter, how to decide if conduct warrants termination for just cause, and the types of conduct that may expose employers to “moral” damages. Lawyers representing employees will hear about how to quickly screen employment cold calls, how to advise on mitigation efforts, and what ‘add-ons’ can be claimed to get your client a little extra. This session is designed for lawyers practicing a little, or a lot, of employment law, and will keep you current on the ever-changing legal landscape of wrongful dismissal.
In-person attendance is strongly encouraged where possible. Attendees are invited to stay after the seminar for an informal social and lunch, featuring sandwiches from Manna Bakery, and other refreshments.
Seminar Presenters:
Chris King – Partner, McInnes Cooper
Kyle Rees – Partner, O’Dea Earle
Registration Fee:
$115.00 ($100.00 + HST)
HST # R108086463
To register for this seminar, please click the following link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1-M0_ECfSIqI0eeusLrR-g

Free Webinar - Overview of Amendments to the Family Violence Protection Act
2025-04-10 12:00 - 13:00 (America/St_Johns) | Online
Seminar Overview:
This seminar will discuss the recent amendments to the provincial Family Violence Protection Act, passed in 2024, which expanded the eligibility of Emergency Protection Order (EPO) applicants in the province. In addition, the seminar presenters will discuss the advocacy that led to this legislative change, including the issues and concerns that were presented by stakeholders, including the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate, the NL Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse, the RNC and RCMP, and others.
Seminar Presenters:
Michael Noseworthy, Assistant Deputy Minister, Department of Justice and Public Safety
Micheal Noseworthy is a lawyer and Assistant Deputy Minister with the Department of Justice and Public Safety in the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. He was first called to the Bar in Newfoundland and Labrador in 2009, after earning his undergraduate degree in Political Science, and law degree from Dalhousie University. Micheal worked in private practice in St. John’s and also spent time working in Labrador, before moving to Whitehorse, Yukon, where he worked in various senior leadership roles in the Government of Yukon focused on regulation and public protection, and was awarded the Premier’s Award of Excellence for his work towards the development of Yukon’s first ever Housing Action Plan. In 2016, Micheal moved to British Columbia to lead a newly created standalone government agency responsible for regulation of the real estate industry, and was responsible for building the office and a team to restore public trust in the regulatory system and enhance public protection. He then served as the Senior Vice President of Compliance and Market Conduct at the British Columbia Financial Services Authority after working as part of the team to create a single financial services regulator for BC. He is a former member of the boards of directors of the Federation of Medical Regulatory Authorities of Canada, the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities of Canada, and currently sits on the Executive of the Canadian Bar Association’s Sexual and Gender Diversity Alliance Section. He has appeared before and provided expert testimony to various commissions and panels, and has appeared before all levels of court in Newfoundland and Labrador. Micheal also holds a Certificate in French as a Second Language from the Université du Québec à Montréal, and a Certificate in Inclusion from the University of Toronto Rotman School of Business.
Kevin O’Shea, Executive Director, Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador
Kevin O’Shea is the Executive Director of the Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (PLIAN), a role he has been in since 2014. He is proud to lead a team of dedicated and caring professionals who provide legal education and information services to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador with the goal of increasing access to justice.
Originally from St. John’s, NL, Kevin completed his law degree at the University of Ottawa in 2009 and his Master of Laws at the University of Turin in 2013, with a focus on International Crime and Justice. He was called to the bar as a Member of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador in 2011 after articling with the Crown Attorney’s Office in St. John’s.
Kevin was appointed as a Commissioner of the Law Commission of Canada in 2024. He also currently serves as the Chair of the Access to Justice Steering Committee for Newfoundland and Labrador. Previously, Kevin as President of the Public Legal Education Association of Canada and as Chair of the Alzheimer Society of Canada and the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador. Kevin also has prior experience working in the fields of education and human rights advocacy in the United States, Cambodia, and Tanzania.
Susan Walsh, Seniors’ Advocate Newfoundland and Labrador

Susan began her career as a front-line Social Worker at the Waterford Hospital in 1991. It didn’t take long for her to realize that to really help people she needed to have an impact at the decision making level. She obtained a Master of Social Work degree, specializing in policy, from the University of Toronto and spent 31 years in progressive leadership positions within the Newfoundland and Labrador provincial government departments of Health and Community Services, Regional Health Authority, Municipal Affairs, Labour Relations Agency, Workplace NL, Labour Relations Agency, Cabinet Secretariat and Executive Council. Susan served on various provincial and national boards, including the National Deputy Ministers Responsible for Seniors and Deputy Ministers responsible for Social Services. Her most recent role, prior to her appointment as the Seniors’ Advocate in June of 2022, was Deputy Minister of the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development.
PLEASE NOTE: THE REGISTRATION PROCESS IS ONLINE ONLY. TO REGISTER FOR THIS SEMINAR, PLEASE CLICK HERE.
CPD Credit: 1 hour

Preventive Justice: The Quest for Certainty in Predicting Future Harm
2025-05-07 19:00 (America/St_Johns)
Chief Justice Sir Francis Forbes Annual Law Lecture
Location: Inco Innovation Centre Lecture Theatre 2001
Free Parking in Adjacent Lot 17
Memorial University Campus

The term “preventive justice” was first used in the 18th century and linked to laws aimed at preventing future crime. In many jurisdictions based on the common law, the past few decades have seen preventive justice schemes reinvigorated in association with a focus on risk assessment tools aimed at predicting the risk of future harmful behaviour. Recently, predictive machine learning algorithms have been used to inform judicial decision-making, including sentencing. Using case studies, this lecture will explore some of the legal and ethical issues raised by preventive justice schemes and will consider whether the quest for certainty in predicting future harm is any closer to being fulfilled.
Brought to you by Memorial University, the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Law Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Featuring guest speaker:
Dr. Bernadette McSherry
Emeritus Professor of Law
University of Melbourne
This is a unique opportunity to engage with a leading expert in the field of preventive justice and to discuss the evolving role of law and technology in shaping our legal landscape. Don’t miss out on the chance to deepen your understanding of these critical issues and connect with professionals in the legal community.
View the event poster here.
Dr. Bernadette McSherry to Deliver 2025 Chief Justice Forbes Lecture

Artificial Intelligence in Legal Practice: Ethics, Innovation, and Regulation
2025-05-08 13:00 - 15:30 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Seminar Overview
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the practice of law – introducing new tools, reshaping workflows, and raising complex ethical and regulatory questions. This seminar will explore the implications of AI for legal professionals, with a particular focus on ethical duties, regulatory considerations, and how AI is being implemented in legal practice in Newfoundland and Labrador and across Canada.
Participants will gain a clearer understanding of what AI is and how it is being used in legal settings today, including tools such as predictive analytics, document review platforms, and generative language models. The session will examine how these technologies intersect with lawyers’ professional obligations – particularly competence, confidentiality, and candour – and will consider how legal regulators might respond to ensure public protection and uphold professional standards.
In addition to legal practice, the seminar will also touch on the growing use of AI in courts and tribunals, highlighting broader trends and innovations within the justice system. The session will include practical examples from local practice and reflections on international developments, offering a well-rounded perspective on the challenges and opportunities AI presents.
This session is ideal for legal professionals seeking to better understand the evolving role of AI in legal services and regulation, both in theory and on the ground.
Seminar Presenters
Professor Amy Salyzyn, University of Ottawa
Amy Salyzyn is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa. Professor Salyzyn has written extensively in the area of legal ethics, lawyer regulation, technology in legal service delivery and access to justice, having now published over 20 articles in Canadian and international journals on these topics. She is also the co-author of Understanding Lawyers’ Ethics in Canada, 3rd Edition, a leading Canadian legal ethics textbook and a General Editor of Canadian Legal Practice, a key practice resource in the area. Prior to entering academia, Professor Salyzyn received her J.S.D. and LL.M. from Yale Law School and her J.D. from the University of Toronto Law School, where she was awarded the Dean’s Key upon graduation. Before coming to the University of Ottawa, Professor Salyzyn also served as a judicial law clerk at the Court of Appeal for Ontario and practiced at a Toronto litigation boutique. She is currently the Board Chair for the Canadian Association for Legal Ethics.
Professor Bernadette McSherry, University of Melbourne
Dr. Bernadette McSherry is an Emeritus Professor of Law at the University of Melbourne, Australia and a Commissioner with the Victorian Law Reform Commission. Prior to her academic career, she worked as a solicitor at Coltmans law firm and as an Associate to Justice Gobbo at the Supreme Court of Victoria. From 2001 to 2018, she served as a Legal Member of the Mental Health Tribunal of Victoria, which makes decisions about compulsory mental health treatment. Professor McSherry completed her doctorate at Osgoode Hall Law School and has published widely in the fields of criminal law and mental health law. From March 2019 to February 2021, she served as a Commissioner of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System.
Trent Skanes, Spellbook
Trent Skanes is a practicing lawyer at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence into the legal profession. As Director of Legal at Spellbook, he helps responsibly develop and effectively deploy generative AI to revolutionize legal drafting, review, and transactions in general. Previously, as a Fractional General Counsel at digital tech law boutique Renno & Co and then at Convergence Law (which he founded), Trent specialized in guiding emerging tech companies through their growth journey, from launch to exit.
His extensive experience includes being a partner at McInnes Cooper, a leading Atlantic Canadian law firm, where he specialized in tech and privacy law and resolving large-scale litigation matters. With a JD (Hons) from the University of Ottawa and as the gold medalist in his Bachelor of Commerce (Hons) program from Memorial University of Newfoundland, Trent combines deep legal and strategic expertise with a passion for technological innovation, positioning him as a thought leader in the practical application of tech and AI in law.
Registration Fee
$115.00 ($100.00 + HST) HST # R108086463
To register for this seminar, please click here.
CPD Credit: 2.5 hours

Court of Appeal: Rule Changes, Court Procedures, Technology, and Advocacy
2025-05-23 09:30 - 13:00 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Reception to Follow
Seminar Overview:
The Law Society is pleased to welcome the Court of Appeal for a seminar highlighting upcoming changes to the Court’s Civil and Criminal Rules. In addition to discussing these amendments, the session will cover key procedural topics, including forms, practice notes, requests, status hearings, and registry processes.
The seminar will also feature an update on the Court of Appeal Legal Clinic and offer the Court’s perspective on the use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies in court proceedings. Finally, there will be a practical overview of best practices in appellate advocacy.
All participants will receive hard copies of the Court of Appeal Civil Rules, 2025 and Court of Appeal Criminal Rules, 2025.
A short reception will follow the seminar and lunch will be provided.
Seminar Presenters:
Chief Justice Deborah E. Fry Justice Lois R. Hoegg
Justice Francis P. O’Brien Justice Frances J. Knickle
Justice Daniel M. Boone Justice Katherine O’Brien
Justice Glen L.C. Noel Justice William H. Goodridge
Kristen O’Keefe, Registrar
To Register, please click here.
Registration Fee: $115.00 ($100.00 + HST)
HST # R108086463
Registration Includes:

Seminar attendance
A copy of the Court of Appeal’s published Criminal Rules, 2025 and Civil Rules, 2025, provided as two separate volumes
Snacks and refreshments
Attendance at reception following seminar (sandwiches and beverages provided)

PLEASE NOTE: In-person attendance is encouraged whenever possible; however, seating is limited. Priority will be given based on the order of registration, so be sure to register early to secure your spot.
CPD Credit: 3.5 hours

Free Upcoming CPD: Autism Acceptance and Understanding: supporting neurodivergent clients, colleagues and loved ones
2025-05-27 09:30 - 12:30 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Seminar Overview:
The session will provide participants with a deeper understanding of how to support Autistic individuals in meaningful, respectful ways. This session offers up-to-date, evidence-informed information about autism and Autistic culture. Grounded in a neurodiversity-affirming approach and the social model of disability, the training includes:

Insights into Autistic communication, processing, and culture
Practical strategies for creating inclusive, neuro-affirming environments for both clients and professionals
Content developed using Autistic-led resources
Discussion about the duty to accommodate and other human rights considerations

Seminar Presenters/Panelists:
Kristen Winter, Navigator for the Avalon Region Autism Society, Newfoundland & Labrador
Patricia Kirby, Staff Solicitor, Legal Aid NL
Carey Majid KC, Executive Director, NL Human Rights Commission
To register for this seminar, please click the following link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cyXdAascSEWUDHyuXjAVzQ
CPD Credit: 2.5 hours

Benchers' Meeting
2025-06-06 09:30 - 11:00 (America/St_Johns) | Online
Please note that the next Benchers’ meeting will take place on Friday, 6 June 2025, at 9:30 am. Anyone wishing to attend a Benchers’ meeting:

is required to provide notice of attendance to the Law Society by emailing erowe@lsnl.ca;
will not be permitted to use audio or video recording devices or communication devices during the meeting;
shall not speak, unless invited to do so by the President;
must observe and obey all rulings of the President; and
shall leave if the meeting is declared closed to the public or if asked to do so by the President.

At this time, attendance shall be via Zoom. An invite will be provided upon receipt of an attendance notice. Agendas will be posted on the Law Society website in advance of each meeting and the Minutes for the Public portion of each meeting will also be posted on the website.
Please RSVP by noon, Monday, 2 June 2025, to Erin Rowe at erowe@lsnl.ca if you plan to attend the Benchers’ Meeting.

Law Society Annual General Meeting
2025-06-06 14:00 - 16:00 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
The Annual General Meeting of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador will be held, in person, at 2:00 pm on Friday, 6 June 2025, at the Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s.
Please RSVP by noon, Monday, 2 June 2025, to Erin Rowe at erowe@lsnl.ca if you plan to attend the AGM.
View the Audited Financial Statements, here.
To view the Annual Report, please click here.

Law Society Annual Dinner and Cocktail Reception
2025-06-06 18:30 - 21:00 (America/St_Johns)
The Law Society’s Annual Dinner and Cocktail Reception will be held on the evening of Friday, 6 June 2025, at the Emera Innovation Exchange.
Cost: $100.00 per person ($86.95 + $13.05 HST)
Cash Bar: 6:30 p.m.
Dinner: 7:00 p.m.
Dress: Business Suit, Semi-Formal
To RSVP, please complete the registration form and send it to Erin Rowe at erowe@lsnl.ca, no later than 29 May 2025.

Empowering Legal Professionals: Mastering Lexis+ AI for Research Excellence
2025-06-09 12:00 - 13:30 (America/St_Johns) | Online
Note: Webinar (Online Only)
Join us for an insightful webinar on Lexis+ AI, where we will offer a refresher on general legal research skills and explore advanced legal research techniques with the transformative power of AI in the legal field. Discover how Lexis+ AI can enhance your research efficiency and decision-making processes, tailored specifically for legal professionals.
Seminar Presenter: Ronald Jones – Product Adoption Consultant at LexisNexis Canada
Ron Jones is a seasoned legal research expert and esteemed trainer with LexisNexis, where he has been making significant contributions since 2003. Based in Ottawa, Ron is fluent in both English and French, allowing him to effectively communicate and connect with a diverse range of legal professionals across Ontario and the Atlantic provinces. With a deep commitment to enhancing legal research capabilities, Ron is known for his professional and patient approach to training. He has dedicated his career to supporting a wide array of legal professionals, including judges, law students from both civil and common law backgrounds, and practitioners at large national law firms and government departments, including the Supreme Court of Canada.
No Registration Fee
To register for this seminar, please click the following link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6gwgzwQGTTy-8towHv-dyQ
CPD Credit: 1.5 hours

The Anatomy of a Personal Injury Claim – Best Practices, Caselaw, and Trends
2025-06-11 13:00 - 15:30 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Seminar Overview:
Join us for an in-depth seminar exploring the key stages of a personal injury claim from both the plaintiff and defence perspectives. This session will cover best practices for claim assessment, pleadings, discovery, expert evidence, and settlement negotiations, while examining recent caselaw and emerging trends in personal injury litigation. Gain insights from experienced practitioners on strategic litigation approaches, risk management, and evolving legal frameworks. A must-attend for those practicing in personal injury law or seeking to refine their litigation skills.
In-person attendance is strongly encouraged where possible. Attendees are invited to stay after the seminar for an informal social reception.
Seminar Presenters:
Blair Pritchett, Intact Insurance
Blair Pritchett is part of the in-house counsel team at Intact Insurance. Blair joined Intact in 2019 to manage the in-house Legal Team in St. John’s. In 2024, Blair transitioned to the role of Legal Consultant, where he now helps to oversee Intact’s national external litigation portfolio. Prior to joining Intact, Blair served 20 years in private practice, most of which time was spent as a partner with McInnes Cooper.
Sophie St. Croix, Roebothan McKay Marshall
Sophie St. Croix was called to the Newfoundland and Labrador bar in 2014. After completing her articles with Valerie Hynes at Roebothan McKay Marshall, she has been practicing with the firm since 2014. Sophie’s areas of practice include personal injury, family law, and real estate.
Registration Fee: $115.00 ($100.00 + HST) HST # R108086463
Registration Includes:

Seminar attendance and materials
Snacks and refreshments

PLEASE NOTE: THE REGISTRATION PROCESS IS ONLINE ONLY. TO REGISTER FOR THIS SEMINAR, PLEASE CLICK THE FOLLOWING LINK:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dxeamUe_Tjezwln1hpEvOg
CPD Credit: 2.5 hours

Disciplinary Hearing: Gregory Stack
2025-06-20 09:30 - 11:30, 2025-06-25 09:30 - 11:30 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Respondent:
Gregory Stack

Date:
June 20, 2025
June 25, 2025
September 15, 2025
September 18, 2025
September 19, 2025

Time:
9:30 a.m.

Place:
Offices of the Law Society 196-198 Water Street

General Nature of the Charges:
In accordance with s. 45(3) of the Law Society Act, 1999, (the “Act”) the Complaints Authorization Committee (the “Committee”) has determined that there are reasonable grounds to believe that Gregory Stack (the “Respondent”) has engaged in conduct deserving of sanction and, in accordance with s. 45(3)(b) of the Act, the Committee has instructed the Vice-President to file the within Complaint against the Respondent on the basis that the Respondent is guilty of conduct deserving of sanction in that he:
Breached the following sections of the Code of Professional Conduct:

Section 2.1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 6.3 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto; and
Section 7.2-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto.

The factual particulars of the Complaint are as follows:
That the Respondent:
i. Failed to act with integrity; and
ii. Engaged in some form of harassment and/or discrimination of another person.
View a list of disciplinary hearings here.

Call to the Bar
2025-06-26 13:30 - 17:00 (America/St_Johns)
This event is limited to those being Called to the Bar and their invited guests.

Effective Strategies in Working with High Conflict Personalities
2025-09-10 13:00 - 15:30 (America/St_Johns) | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
Seminar Overview
This engaging and practical seminar explores effective approaches to working with high conflict personalities. Legal professionals frequently encounter clients or opposing parties whose behaviour escalates conflict and complicates legal processes. This training provides insight into the nature of high conflict personalities and equips participants with tools to manage these challenging dynamics more effectively.
This presentation will draw from the following topics:

Recognizing potential indicators and key characteristics of high conflict personalities
Managing professional roles and responsibilities when collaborating with other professionals (e.g., custody assessors, child protection workers, therapists)
Understanding relevant personality disorders (e.g., borderline, narcissistic, antisocial, histrionic)
Implementing hostility reduction strategies and identifying intractable or high-risk situations
Maintaining impartiality, managing personal triggers, and applying self-care strategies
Exploring legal and clinical interventions for navigating complex and high-conflict cases

This seminar is ideal for lawyers, mediators, and professionals working in high-conflict environments who are looking to build confidence, develop specialized skills, and foster more effective outcomes in their practice.
Seminar Presenters
Howard Hurwitz, MSW, RSW, AccFM (Ontario)
Howard is a social worker in private practice, specializing in supporting families navigating separation and divorce. He is also a certified family mediator. With a Master of Social Work and more than 46 years of experience in child protection, children’s mental health, and family counselling, Howard has held senior roles, including 16 years as Director of a child protection agency in Toronto.
Howard founded and chaired the High Conflict Forum, a community-based network bringing together lawyers, judges, mental health professionals, and child protection staff from over 30 agencies to support high-conflict families experiencing separation or divorce. This model has been so successful that it has been adopted in five other Canadian cities.
An experienced trainer, Howard regularly delivers training to professionals in the child protection, children’s mental health, and family law sectors. He has presented at international conferences in the United States and the Netherlands and is recognized by the courts as an expert in working with high-conflict families and cases involving parental alienation. He is frequently consulted by professionals across disciplines on these matters. Howard is also co-author, with Dr. Barbara Fidler and Professor Nicholas Bala, of Emotional Harm and Parent-Child Contact Problems in High Conflict Separations.
Howard is a lead clinician in Families Moving Forward, a treatment program designed for children who have disrupted contact with a parent following parental separation or divorce.
Registration Fee
$115.00 ($100.00 + HST)
HST # R108086463
Register Here
CPD Credit
2.5 hours
