Up She Rises! Women and Gender in Newfoundland and Labrador Public Forum by the Newfoundland and Labrador Historical Society
2025-11-09 10:00 - 21:30 (America/St_Johns) | Newfoundland & Labrador
Inspired by the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage in NL, Up She Rises! constitutes a public discussion about women and gender in NL history. It involves academics, researchers, activists, writers, and poets who have studied and written about women and gender in NL history. This is a capstone event to the anniversary year of women’s suffrage in this province. We hope it will inspire people to learn more about the historical experiences of women and gender-diverse folks and to continue the work of engaging with our collective history.
Sunday, November 9Bruneau Centre, Memorial University
10:00–11:00 amSession 4: Politics, Agency, and LeadershipTracey Evans-Rice & Andrea Procter – Stories of Strength and Connection: Celebrating Inuit Women’s Leadership in NunatsiavutMeret Ebsary – Trusted to Choose?: Women and the Politics of Control in Newfoundland (1890–1940)Sonja Boon – “Widows of the West End” and other monikers: Pseudonyms in letters to Smallwood, 1948–51
10-Minute Break
11:10 am–12:10 pmSession 5: Women, Land, and SeaErica HurleyVicki Hallett – How to Escape a Net: Women, Cod, and Multi-species Possibilities in Archival Research in Newfoundland & LabradorHeidi Coombs – “Women came and helped her plant the garden”: Gardening, Gender, and the Grenfell Mission in Northern Newfoundland & Labrador, 1906–1949
12:10–12:50 pmLunch
12:50–1:50 pmSession 6: Creative Approaches to Women’s & Gender HistoryJulia Laite – Sketches of a Life? Toward a Biography of ShanawdithitKristina Bidwell – Reading Academic Colonialism in Labrador: Lydia Campbell and the John Mason Hastings DiaryRhea Rollman – Reading Between the Lines: Researching Marginalized Community Histories in Newfoundland and Labrador
20-Minute Break
2:10–3:40 pmRoundtable: Challenges and Ways Forward (Up She Rises: Redux)Terry Bishop Stirling, Margot Duley, Vicki Hallett, Willeen Keough, Julia Stryker
3:40–4:00 pmRebecca Ralph – Closing Remarks
7:00–9:30 pmNL Women’s History in Poetry and FictionMary Dalton, Leahdawn Helena, Robin McGrath, Trudy Morgan-Cole, Agnes WalshReception
View the event poster here.

Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund Online Information Session
2025-11-10 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
On November 10th, join us for a one-hour webinar at 2:00 p.m. AST to learn about the Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund (AICLF). This
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) initiative can help immigrants with permanent resident status or Canadian citizenship obtain training and certification in their chosen fields or related fields in their new home provinces.
During this event, you will learn:

Who is eligible for the AICLF
What costs the AICLF can cover
The kinds of programs the AICLF can help pay for
How the AICLF is funded and how it is administered across Atlantic Canada
Why the AICLF is a better choice for immigrants in Atlantic Canada than funding through a private institution on their own

During and after the presentation, you can also ask any questions you might have about AICLF.
Registration and attendance details:

Register for the event by filling in this form.
The registration deadline is 5 pm AST November 7th.
You will receive a link to the meeting before the event.

For more information, please contact: Ken Partridge | kpartridge@isans.ca

Trauma-Informed Restorative Justice for Healthier Schools, Communities, and Systems in Newfoundland & Labrador
2025-11-13 - 2025-11-15 | Newfoundland & Labrador
Join the annual Institute this November: Trauma-Informed Restorative Justice for Healthier Schools, Communities, and Systems in Newfoundland & Labrador. This special gathering, featuring guest Joe Brummer, will take place November 13-15, 2025 in St. John’s, NL.
At this fall edition of the Institute we will welcome Joe Brummer, author and leading voice in trauma-informed restorative justice, along with other special guests. Together, we’ll spend time in circle and dialogue to explore what happens when we are trauma-informed and put Relationships First in our schools, communities, and everyday lives.
Participants can look forward to keynote addresses from Joe Brummer and Dr. Dorothy Vaandering, relational learning in circle and dialogue, interactive sessions that engage body and mind, and discover practical tools to bring into schools, communities, and daily life.
Dates: Thursday, November 13, 6:30 PM to Saturday, November 15, 12:30 PM
Location: Thursday evening at the GeoCentre, Friday and Saturday at Emera Innovation Exchange, St. John’s
What to Expect
Join us for three days of learning, reflection, and connection as we explore the intersections of trauma-informed practice and restorative justice.

Thursday Evening, November 13: Keynote with Joe Brummer, internationally recognized leader in trauma-informed restorative justice
Friday Morning, November 14: Keynote with dr. dorothy vaandering, grounding us in relational theory and practice
Friday Afternoon, November 14: Experiential workshop with Lisa and Laurie Pinhorn, focusing on body, brain, and nervous system approaches to healing and resilience
Saturday Morning, November 15: Panel discussion on the future of trauma-informed restorative justice in NL

Cost: Registration is $150 (subsidies may be available upon request)
✨ Special Offer for Educators: Register yourself and you can bring up to five students (grades 7-12) for FREE
More to Come: Additional guests, panelists, and experiences will be announced in the coming weeks
REGISTER NOW

The International Anti-Corruption Court: To Be or Not To Be
2025-11-13 08:30 - 21:30 | Online
The Commonwealth Lawyers Association and the Coalition for International Anti-Corruption Court present a webinar on The International Anti-Corruption Court: To Be or Not To Be?
Calls for the creation of an International Anti-Corruption Court (IACC) have gained momentum as corruption continues to undermine democracy, development, and the rule of law worldwide. But would such a court be an effective solution—or an impractical ambition?
This webinar will bring together leading experts, practitioners, and policymakers to examine the case for and against the establishment of an IACC. We will explore the legal, political, and practical challenges, as well as alternative approaches to combating grand corruption at the global level.
Participants will gain a nuanced understanding of the debate and the implications for international justice, accountability, and governance reform.
To register for the event please click here.
8.00am EST / 1.00pm GMT London / 2.00pm WAT / 3.00pm CAT / 6.30pm IST / 9.00pm MYT

Central IDEAS 2025 – Culture at Work: Celebrating Differences, Building Belonging
2025-11-14 | Newfoundland & Labrador
Central IDEAS 2025 – Culture at Work: Celebrating Differences, Building Belonging
Join us in Gander on Friday, November 14th, 2025 for Newfoundland and Labrador’s Provincial IDEA Summit — a free, full-day event featuring:
Shaun Majumder as keynote speaker
Live cultural entertainment
Interactive workshops
️ Incredible food & networking
The event will be broadcast live and featured on Rogers Television, reaching audiences across the province.
Stay the Night!
Enjoy a 20% discount at the Quality Inn & Suites Gander, and join our free Meet & Greet on Thursday, November 13th.
️ Register Now – It’s Free!
Scan the QR Code to reserve your spot.
Partner or Sponsor
Show your support for inclusion and belonging in Newfoundland and Labrador.
For sponsorship opportunities, email ideas@ancnl.ca.

The Declaratory Judgment: Its Availability and Its Limitations
2025-11-14 12:00 - 13:00 | Newfoundland & Labrador
Speaker: Professor Gerard Kennedy (University of Alberta Faculty of Law)
Location: Alt Hotel, St. John’s, NL
Professor Kennedy will explore the “declaratory judgment”—a judgment that does not provide remedies beyond a declaration regarding a legal state of affairs. He will discuss when such judgments may be granted, their purposes, and their advantages and limitations.
A light lunch will be provided. Registration is free but required. Participants can also receive one hour of CLE credit.
Register here: Event Registration Form
About the Speaker:
Professor Gerard Kennedy is an Associate Professor at the University of Alberta Faculty of Law. He earned his JD from Queen’s University (Dean’s Key recipient), completed an LLM at Harvard Law School as a Frank Knox Memorial Fellow, and later received his doctorate at Osgoode Hall Law School. His doctoral work was supported by a Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship and a SSHRC award, with visiting research positions at NYU School of Law and the Max Planck Institute Luxembourg.

National Restorative Justice Symposium
2025-11-17 - 2025-11-18 | Newfoundland & Labrador
Location: Ottawa, Ontario (In-person)Dates: November 17–18, 2025Theme: Celebrating Progress – Shaping the Future
Note: If you’d like to present at this event, the deadline to submit a proposal is July 12, 2025.
The National Restorative Justice Symposium (NRJS) is now accepting presentation proposals for the 2025 event in Ottawa.
This year’s theme honors the journey of restorative justice in Canada—from its Indigenous roots to its expansion across justice systems, schools, academic institutions, and community programs. The organizing committee is seeking engaging, forward-thinking presentations that reflect on the progress made while exploring new directions for the future.
Presenters are encouraged to address themes such as:

Sustainability in restorative practices

Equity and inclusion

Community voice and accountability

Institutional change and innovation

Benefits for presenters include:

Complimentary symposium registration

Opportunities to network with practitioners and leaders from across sectors

A platform to contribute to transformative conversations in the field of restorative justice

More information about the National Restorative Justice Symposium, and the proposal submission form can be found here.
More event details to follow.

Democracy, the Rule of Law, and Independence Conference
2025-11-18 - 2025-11-20 | Online
Date: November 18-20, 2025

Location: In person – Ottawa (ON), & Online

REGISTER
OVERVIEW
The rule of law is a foundational principle of society, essential for the flourishing of democracy. It creates an environment where governance is just, transparent, and accountable, fostering public confidence. However, when this confidence erodes, the community’s willingness to engage with the legal system diminishes, threatening the very fabric of democratic institutions.
CIAJ Conference on Democracy, the Rule of Law, and Independence is a multidisciplinary event designed to bring together actors from civil society—including legal, political, and social stakeholders—to critically examine the principles that uphold social stability and the rule of law. Our goal is to deepen understanding of these essential tenets and identify actionable strategies to enhance public trust in legal institutions.
The conference will address the rising tide of global authoritarianism and its impact on democratic governance. By bringing together diverse perspectives and fostering open dialogue, we aspire to cultivate innovative solutions that promote transparency, accountability, and resilience in the face of emerging challenges. Join us in this critical conversation to strengthen our commitment to democracy and the rule of law on a global scale.
Bilingual program with simultaneous interpretation.
Compensation for judges:
As we have reached the maximum number permitted by our resolution under section 41.1 of the Judges Act, any new applications must now be submitted for approval and reimbursement in accordance with section 41.2.

The Absence of Rest in Legal Culture - Implications for Health
2025-11-18 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
Lawyer-researcher KK Pinkowski, whose PhD dissertation was on rest deficits in law, and lawyer-counsellor Michael Kahn will speak about both rest and sleep (a subset of rest.) Panelists will discuss why lawyers resist (and devalue) rest. Both BC and Saskatchewan lawyers will receive CPD credits for this presentation. Registration is through LAP BC.

Register here.

Assertive Communication
2025-11-20 | Online
Our communication skills and style are essential to positive and productive relations. Effective communication requires us to be clear about our own thoughts and desires, and also to be responsive to those of others. Assertive communicators express ideas and feelings in transparent, open, and direct ways – stating their needs clearly and without defensiveness. In this training, participants will build an awareness of their communication patterns and learn to deal confidently with people around them. This workshop is fun, meaningful, and highly effective for improving communication awareness and skills.

Learning Objectives
Upon completion, participants should be able to:

Define assertive communication
Practice giving an assertive opinion
Discuss personal boundaries and practice saying no when appropriate
Outline the steps for giving corrective feedback in the form of a DESO script
Identify options for responding to negative feedback

Method of Delivery
Presentation, video, experiential practice, personal reflection, delivered electronically.

Some of the Topics Included

What’s Required for Effective Communication
Assertiveness Self-Assessment
Characteristics of Aggressive and Passive Communicators
Assertive Communicator Characteristics
Assertive Body Language
Guidelines for Offering an Opinion
Strategies for Giving Directions
How to Say “No” Assertively
Skills for Making Requests
Giving Corrective Feedback
Dealing with Difficult Responses

Target Audience
This is an introductory-intermediate level workshop.
Terms & Conditions

View our cancellation policy and other information regarding your live virtual workshop or for your in-person workshop.
This is a live virtual event, please check your system requirements prior to registering.
Participants will receive the Zoom meeting login details and information about viewing the live virtual workshop by email 3-4 calendar days prior to the date of the event.
Please note, payment is required in order to receive the login details.

Trainer: Jessica Antony

Jessica is a communications specialist with over a decade of experience helping others share their stories, with a focus on collaborative communication, editorial development, and content creation. She has a bachelor’s degree in Rhetoric and Communications and a master’s degree in Media Studies. Jessica facilitates workshops on leadership, communication skills, and content creation, and has been teaching in the Department of Rhetoric, Writing, and Communications at the University of Winnipeg since 2009. In all her work, she is committed to developing and maintaining trusting relationships, with an attention to cultural differences, working styles, and mutual goals. Jessica is enthusiastic about helping people strengthen their ability to communicate clearly, respectfully, and with ease. She is a dynamic and engaging facilitator who is enthusiastic about understanding people’s communication styles and approaches to help them improve their capacity to effectively and respectfully communicate with those around them. Read blogs written by Jessica here.

Small Clients, Big Responsibilities; The Role of Lawyers in Child Representation
2025-11-20 04:30 - 05:30 | Online
The Commonwealth Lawyers Association Family Law Committee in Partnership with the Malaysian Bar, present Small Clients, Big Responsibilities; The Role of Lawyers in Child Representation.
7.00am London GMT / 8.00am WAT / 9.00am CAT / 12.30pm IST / 3.00pm MYT, SGT & HKT / 5.00pm PGT / 6.00pm AEDT
A heavy responsibility that goes beyond simply representing the voice of a child. To ensure that the process is child-centric and child-inclusive. To remain independent and to be able to furnish a report that would be instrumental to a Judge in making Orders that promote the best interest of the child
To register for the event please click on the link

Andrew Martin Disciplinary Hearing
2025-11-20 10:00 - 13:00 | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
NOTICE OF A HEARING DATE

Respondent:
Andrew Martin

Date:
November 20, 2025

Time:
10:00 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 Andrew Martin (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:
2023-027:
Breached the following sections of the Code of Professional Conduct:

Section 2.1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 3.1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 3.2 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 3.4 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 7.1-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct;
Section 7.1-3 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 7.2-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto; and
Section 7.8 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto.

C2023-033:
Breached the following sections of the Code of Professional Conduct:

Section 2.1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 3.1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 3.2 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 7.1-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct;
Section 7.2-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 7.2-4 of the Code of Professional Conduct; and
Section 7.8 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto.

2023-047:
Breached the following sections of the Code of Professional Conduct:

Section 2.1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 3.1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 3.2 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 3.4 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 7.1-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct;
Section 7.2-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 7.2-4 of the Code of Professional Conduct; and
Section 7.8 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto.

C2023-055:
Breached the following sections of the Code of Professional Conduct:

Section 2.1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 3.1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 3.2 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 7.1-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct;
Section 7.1-3 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto;
Section 7.2-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto; and
Section 7.8 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto.

2023-065:
Breached the following sections of the Code of Professional Conduct:

Section 2.1 of the Code of Professional Conduct and related commentaries thereto; and
Section 7.1-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct.

Breached the following Law Society Rules:

Rule 9.04; and
Rule 9.07.

For a list of Disciplinary Hearings, please click here.

IP, AI & Personality Rights Issues in Estate Planning
2025-11-20 13:30 - 15:00 | Online
*This program features real-time video of the presenter with synchronized presentation slides, and a chat feature that allows for live Q & A. SK attendees please verify whether you align with Central (MB) or Mountain (AB) time based on season and location.

Technical Information:
Live webinars allow you to view faculty, see their presentation slides, and ask questions by chat. You will need a current web browser (Chrome (Chrome works best), Safari, Firefox), a wired (better than wireless) connection to the Internet of at least 2 Mbps. You can test your internet speed/bandwidth here. If you miss the live program, you can access the archive, at your convenience, for 60 days.

Who Should Attend
This program is designed with estate and trust lawyers in mind, but it will also be highly relevant to any lawyer who encounters issues involving intellectual property, digital assets, or the posthumous use of creative or personal content.

About the Program
As the legal landscape evolves, so does the definition of a client’s legacy. In a world where intellectual property, performance rights, and digital personas can generate value – and controversy – long after death, modern estate lawyers must be equipped to address a new class of assets. This seminar with experienced estates lawyer Dan Nelson and entertainment lawyer Emma Chapple offers a timely look at the intersection of estate law, intellectual property, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Designed primarily for estate and trust lawyers, it is also highly relevant for any practitioner whose clients include influencers, artists, entrepreneurs, or everyday individuals with online identities – all of which raise complex questions about ownership, control, and use after death. Dan and Emma will share practical guidance on:

IP and personality rights after death
Drafting strategies for IP and personality rights in wills and trusts
Best practices for protecting and transferring creative assets
Legal parameters around AI-generated recreations of voice, image, and performance
Risks and ethical considerations

Issues relating to IP and personality rights are no longer limited to celebrities or high-profile estates. Join us and gain the tools and insight you need to develop legally sound, forward-thinking strategies to help your clients protect and plan for their full legacy.

Meet Your Presenters
Dan Nelson is the Managing Partner at Massey LLP in Toronto. An experienced estates lawyer, Dan is an expert at guiding clients through the process of preparing wills, powers of attorney, and trusts. He also offers practical business advice to entrepreneurs, particularly in the field of design. Dan is a frequent lecturer and writer, with appearances on CBC, Global News, and CTV, and expert quotes in the Washington Post, Toronto Star and Canadian Business. An experienced adjudicator and mediator, he is a former part-time member of the Ontario Land Tribunal, where he specialized in the Ontario Heritage Act. Dan is a past recipient of the OBA’s Widdifield Award for his work on digital legacy. He holds two degrees from Trent University and an LLB from the University of Windsor.

Emma Chapple is an associate with Massey LLP in Toronto. Emma’s practice focuses on the intersection of litigation, commerce and entertainment. Her expertise includes talent negotiations, reputational counsel, licencing and rights management and litigating complex commercial disputes. Emma holds a JD from The Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University. She attended Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles, CA in the fall 2018 semester, where she studied media and entertainment law. In her free time, Emma serves on the advocacy committee of the Women’s Law Association of Ontario and is an enthusiastic TIFF attendee. Emma’s cultural commentary has also been featured in Vulture and The Wall Street Journal.

Family Dispute Resolution Week
2025-11-24 - 2025-11-28 | Online
Advancing Family Dispute Resolution in Atlantic Canada
The Family Dispute Resolution Institute Atlantic (FDRIA) is proud to announce the launch of the first annual Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) Week in Atlantic Canada, taking place from November 24 to 28, 2025. This year’s theme, Advancing Family Dispute Resolution in Atlantic Canada, highlights the growing importance of peaceful, out-of-court solutions for families navigating legal challenges.
FDR Week will feature a series of hybrid events – available both in person in St. John’s and online from anywhere – designed to engage the public, professionals, and policymakers in meaningful dialogue and learning around family dispute resolution.
Key Events Include:

Free Public Information Session: An evening event open to the public and professionals, offering insights into how family mediation works and how it can help resolve legal issues peacefully.
Professional Half-Day Conference: A multi-disciplinary gathering for lawyers, judges, mental health professionals, academics, social workers, and others. The conference will explore current practices and innovations in family dispute resolution across Newfoundland and Labrador and Atlantic Canada. Advance registration is required.
Film Launch: Premiere of a locally-produced short film showcasing family mediation as a constructive alternative to court-based conflict resolution.

For more information about the conference, please click here.

Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund Online Information Session
2025-11-24 18:00 - 19:00 | Online
On November 24th, join us for a one-hour webinar at 6:00 p.m. AST to learn about the Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund (AICLF). This Immigrant Services Association of NS-led initiative can help immigrants with permanent resident status or Canadian citizenship obtain training and certification in their chosen fields or related fields in their new home provinces.
During this event, you will learn:

Who is eligible for the AICLF
What costs the AICLF can cover
The kinds of programs the AICLF can help pay for
How the AICLF is funded and how it is administered across Atlantic Canada
Why the AICLF is a better choice for immigrants in Atlantic Canada than funding through a private institution on their own

During and after the presentation, you can also ask any questions you might have about AICLF.
Registration and attendance details:

Register for the event by filling in this form.
The registration deadline is 5 pm AST November 21st.
You will receive a link to the meeting before the event.

For more information, please contact:
Ken Partridge
kpartridge@isans.ca

Platform: Microsoft Teams

Leading Courageous Conversations on Divisive Issues
2025-11-25 | Online
Equip yourself with a clear framework to lead difficult conversations with confidence

Professional development for senior leaders and board members to navigate divisive issues, strengthen trust, and mitigate legal and reputational risk.

ENROLL NOW – October 22nd

ENROLL NOW – November 25th

Why this conversation matters

Today’s leaders are navigating an environment of heightened polarization. Divisive issues surface in boardrooms, workplaces, and communities with increasing frequency. A single poorly managed conversation can escalate into reputational damage, organizational mistrust, or the loss of stakeholder confidence.

Board members, executives, and senior leaders often avoid these conversations out of fear of saying the wrong thing, triggering conflict, or deepening division. Others engage without preparation or a framework to guide them, leaving dialogue reactive rather than constructive. The consequences are predictable: strained relationships, disengaged employees, and unresolved conflict that undermines organizational performance and culture.

This program has been accredited by the Law Society of Ontario for 2 hours of Professionalism Content and 1 hour of EDI Professionalism Content.

You’re not alone if you’re facing one or more of these challenges:

Eager to support your people but unsure how: People within your organization have deeply held beliefs, making conversations emotionally charged and difficult to manage. You are struggling to foster constructive dialogue without alienating individuals or groups.
Expected to have all the solutions: You recognize that as a leader, you set the tone at the top, and you must know how to respond in the face of increasing divisiveness. However, you feel you do not have the knowledge or tools to respond effectively.
Afraid of saying something wrong or being misinterpreted: You understand the weight of your words and the potential consequences in today’s heightened climate of cancel culture. Fear of misinterpretation and retribution has left you hesitant to address divisive issues.
Witnessing silence within your organization: You feel increasingly frustrated by the silence, especially from your fellow leaders, on issues that are affecting people across your organization. You recognize the urgent need to restore trust and strengthen psychological safety.
Concerned about risk to the organization: You are concerned of the legal and reputational risks to your organization.
Committed to all stakeholders: You understand the importance of focusing on more than just your employees when addressing divisive issues. You realize that your organization’s impact extends to external stakeholders and the broader community your organization serves.

Conversations on divisive issues are uncomfortable but necessary, and I will show you how to lead them effectively …

A 3-hour live professional development session that provides leaders with a clear framework to navigate difficult conversations, foster trust, and reduce organizational risk.

Read more here.

Family Mediation Public Information Session
2025-11-25 19:00 - 20:30 | Newfoundland & Labrador

Polarity Management: Leading Through Complexity
2025-11-26 | Online
In today’s complex and rapidly changing world, many of the toughest leadership challenges aren’t problems to be solved – they’re ongoing tensions that need to be managed with care. Whether it’s balancing innovation and efficiency, structure and flexibility, or global consistency and local responsiveness, the ability to lead through polarity is a crucial skill for sustainable success.
Polarity management refers to the practice of recognizing and managing these interdependent pairs of values or priorities, rather than trying to choose one over the other. Leaders who ignore these tensions risk swinging between extremes, creating confusion, burnout, and strategic drift.
This practical workshop introduces leaders to the art of polarity management using the Dual Dynamics Grid. You will learn how to navigate competing priorities with clarity and confidence, using real-world examples, collaborative exercises, personal reflection, and a powerful mindset shift from either/or thinking to both/and leadership. You will come away with the adaptability and alignment essential for leading through complexity.

Learning Objectives
Upon completion, participants should be able to:

Identify and differentiate between solvable problems and polarities
Explain the principles and risks of mismanaging polarities
Apply the Dual Dynamics Grid to real-world leadership tensions
Use polarity management tools to navigate personal and organizational challenges
Practice using both/and thinking in daily decisions and long-term strategies

Method of Delivery
Presentation, case studies, experiential practice, personal reflection, and small group discussions.

*Please allow only the registered individual(s) to view the materials.
Note: An e-manual for this workshop is included in purchase.

Some of the Topics Included

Why Polarity Management Matters
The Leadership Value of Tension
The Dual Dynamics Grid
Applying Polarity Thinking to Real Issues
Early Warning Signs Checklist
Embedding the Practice
Case Study | Managing the Polarity of Crisis Response

Target Audience
This workshop is for executive leaders, directors, people managers, team leads, human resources, organization development, and strategy professionals, as well as change agents and project leaders. Ideal for those who navigate complex and rapidly changing environments, it equips you with the skills to manage ongoing tensions rather than just solve problems.
Whether you’re balancing innovation and efficiency, structure and flexibility, or global consistency and local responsiveness, you will gain tools to lead through polarity with clarity and confidence. This immersive workshop will help you recognize and manage competing priorities, avoid extremes, and build the adaptability and alignment essential for sustainable success.
Terms & Conditions

View our cancellation policy and other information regarding your live virtual workshop or for your in-person workshop.
This is a live virtual event, please check your system requirements prior to registering.
Participants will receive the Zoom meeting login details and information about viewing the live virtual workshop by email 3-4 calendar days prior to the date of the event.
Please note, payment is required in order to receive the login details.

Trainer: David Jung
David has provided leadership for various non-profit organizations for over 25 years. He has a degree in Philosophy, a diploma in Counselling, a Master of Arts in Christian Counselling, as well as certifications in Conflict Resolution and Mediation. In addition to training with ACHIEVE, he works as ACHIEVE’s Training and Development Specialist. In this role, David provides support to other trainers and ensures that training material reflects the current research in the field and is consistent with ACHIEVE’s core beliefs. He also works in the field of mediation where he volunteers as a Mediator for the court diversion program in Manitoba. In whatever role David finds himself, his passion for motivating people to continue their personal journey of learning and growth shines through. David believes that no matter what our role is in the workplace, we can all continue to grow in our skills to improve our own life and to help improve the lives of others. As a trainer, he is known for his dynamic workshop facilitation that combines humour and real-world application.

FDRIA Conference 2025: Advancing Family Dispute Resolution in Atlantic Canada
2025-11-27 12:00 - 15:00 | Newfoundland & Labrador
For more information about the FDRIA Conference 2025 view the flyer here or visit www.fdria.ca.

Writing Persuasive Briefs and Appeal Facta
2025-11-27 13:30 - 15:00 | Online
Learning Options:
Live webinar with chat
includes 60 day replay
9:00 am – 10:30 am (Pacific)
10:00 am – 11:30 am (Mountain)
11:00 am – 12:30 pm (Central)
12:00 pm – 1:30 pm (Eastern)
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm (Atlantic)
1:30 pm – 3:00 pm (Newfoundland)
*This program features real-time video of the presenter with synchronized presentation slides, and a chat feature that allows for live Q & A. SK attendees please verify whether you align with Central (MB) or Mountain (AB) time based on season and location.

CPD Credit Hours:

CPD Hours (live presentation*)
ON: This program contains 1.5 Professionalism hours.
BC: This program has been approved for 1.5 CPD hours.
SK: This program qualifies for 1.5 CPD hours under the Law Society of SK CPD Policy.
Lawyers in other mandatory CPD jurisdictions may count their attendance towards their CPD requirement/plan.
Seminar Partners is an Accredited Provider of Professionalism Content by the Law Society of Ontario and a pre-approved CPD Provider of the Law Society of British Columbia.
*The circumstances under which CPD credit will be recognized for watching archive programs vary by province. If you are viewing the recording of the live webinar, please verify with your law society the circumstances under which they will recognize CPD hours for the recording.

Technical Information:
Live webinars allow you to view faculty, see their presentation slides, and ask questions by chat. You will need a current web browser (Chrome (Chrome works best), Safari, Firefox), a wired (better than wireless) connection to the Internet of at least 2 Mbps. You can test your internet speed/bandwidth here. If you miss the live program, you can access the archive, at your convenience, for 60 days.

Satisfaction Guarantee:
At Seminar Partners, we’re proud of the quality of our programs and presenters. If, after attending a program in its entirety, you are not satisfied that the program has enhanced your understanding of the subject, and you notify us in writing the same day, we will give you a credit toward another program of comparable price.

Who Should Attend
This seminar is ideal for any lawyer who wants to write more clearly, more confidently, and more persuasively.

About the Program
Strong legal writing is one of the most powerful tools in a lawyer’s toolkit—and one of the most transferable. Whether you’re advocating in court, before tribunals, in arbitration, or in strategic advisory work, how you present your argument on the page can shape outcomes long before anything is said aloud. This 90-minute presentation with experienced research and writing lawyer Linda Jensen will teach you how to craft legal documents that are clear, strategic, and persuasive. You’ll learn how to organize complex material, frame issues effectively, tell the story through the facts, blend evidence and law seamlessly, and avoid common pitfalls that weaken your message. Linda will also share insights on the new reality of AI in legal drafting. Packed with helpful examples and guidance from courts, you’ll leave with proven techniques that you can immediately apply to improve the quality of your writing. By the end of the presentation, you’ll know how to:

Plan your documents with clarity and purpose— before you start writing
Distill complex material into clean, readable, and persuasive prose
Apply best practices for different sections of legal documents
Understand how AI is changing legal drafting

Don’t miss this opportunity to build writing habits that will improve every legal document you produce.

Meet Your Presenter
Linda Jensen is the principal and lead lawyer of Bottom Line Research and Juridica Legal Research, which offer legal research and drafting support to lawyers, law firms, corporations, and government and other agencies. Linda has more than 20 years of experience as a research lawyer, including five years at a major Canadian law firm. Linda’s team of experienced research lawyers prepare research memoranda, briefs, appellate documentation, including factums, applications, and leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada applications and responses, policy papers and quantum assessments. Linda is an active member of the Law Society of Alberta and the Quebec Bar Association, and holds Bachelors degrees in both common and civil law (LLB and BCL, McGill University) and a Masters degree (LLM, Osgoode Hall Law School) in Business Law. Linda is fluently bilingual and works in both English and French. She is happy to call Canmore, Alberta, home.

Schedule (Eastern)
12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Welcome and Introduction
Starting Fundamentals

What you need to begin writing

The Drafting Mindset

Your goal
What judges want

Building the Document

How to write a great Brief or Factum section by section

A Few Words About Drafting with AI Tools

Pros, cons and pitfalls

Program Wrap-up and Evaluation

Praise for Past Programs:
“[The presenter] explains important concepts of legal writing in a simple and straightforward way.”
“Fantastic presenter!!! Very knowledgeable.”
“Practical advice about all aspects of the writing process.”
“Presenter had an excellent pace and communicated info very clearly.”
“Engaging, insightful, and, above all, helpful to new and experienced legal writers alike.”

Register

The Architecture of Trust Building in Mediation - A Joint Conference Between FMC and AFMS
2025-11-28 | Newfoundland & Labrador
Most mediators believe they understand trust, yet trust often unravels in the very moments it matters most. This keynote invites participants to look deeper, exploring how trust actually forms, breaks, and repairs in mediation. Dr. Michael Saini draws on lived experience and new research to reveal the hidden structure of trust and how mediators can intentionally design it into every interaction. You will leave seeing trust not as an instinct, but as a framework to be studied, practiced, and strengthened.

Where

University of Calgary ‘Blue Room’, 124 University Gate NW, Calgary, AB – and online via Zoom

Keynote Speaker

Dr. Michael Saini

Dr. Michael Saini is a Professor at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work at the University of Toronto, where he holds the endowed Chair in Law and Social Work and is cross-appointed to the Faculty of Law. He also serves as the Co-Director of the combined J.D./M.S.W. program. With over 20 years of experience working at the intersection of family law and social work, Dr. Saini brings a deep understanding of how social work values align with mediation practices. His research and teaching focus on trauma-informed approaches, child-inclusive dispute resolution, and evidence-informed policy development. He has authored more than 200 publications on parenting evaluations, family violence, and dispute resolution processes and regularly presents to international audiences on the evolving role of social workers in legal contexts. Dr. Saini is a board member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), Family Mediation Canada (FMC), and the Canadian Coalition for the Rights of Children (CCRC), and is committed to strengthening the profession’s role in peaceful, collaborative family law solutions.

On campus parking included!
Conference hotel: Alt Hotel Calgary University District, 482 Mclaurin St, NW,
Calgary, Alberta, T3B 6K3. Conference rate is $142/night, available until October 28, 2025 >> Click here to book at discounted rate
Registration Disclaimer
Registrations are transferable; however, no cancellations or refunds will be issued. Individuals who register for in-person attendance may switch to virtual attendance should circumstances change. Please note that no refund or price adjustment will be provided if switching from in-person to virtual. By completing your registration, you acknowledge and accept these terms.

De-escalating Potentially Violent Situations
2025-12-02 | Online
This workshop is provided in partnership with our partner organization, Crisis & Trauma Resource Institute (CTRI). Workshop details may be sent to you via email from CTRI.

If you work with people, it’s crucial to know how to defuse dangerous situations before they become violent. This workshop will equip you with a trauma-informed approach to de-escalate situations with confidence, interpersonal communication skills, and empathy.
You will explore the dynamics of how our brains manage escalating emotions, identify enablers of violence, and learn regulation skills so you can confidently navigate tense situations. By the end of this training, you will have a clear understanding of how to assess the potential for violence and respond with a diverse set of interpersonal tools and strategies.

Learning Objectives
Upon completion, participants should be able to:

Explore the importance of using a trauma-informed approach in the de-escalation process
Identify common trauma responses and your role in escalation
Understand the importance of emotion regulation in successful de-escalation
Implement a practical de-escalation framework
Review and practice de-escalation strategies

Method of Delivery
Presentation, video, case study exercises, experiential practice, personal reflection, and small group discussions.

Some of the Topics Included

A Trauma-Informed Approach
Putting Trauma Responses in Context
Emotion Regulation and the Triune Brain
The Impacts of Emotionally Heightened Situations
Co-Regulation
Overview of Violence
Behaviours of Concern and Enablers of Violence
Rating Your Workplace Risk Levels
The De-escalation Process: Awareness, Connection, Problem-Solving, Closing
Promoting Strategies for Whole-Brain Integration
When and How to Disengage
Practice Scenarios
Special Considerations for Unique Situations

Target Audience
This is an introductory-intermediate level workshop for anyone who wants to learn trauma-informed interpersonal strategies to de-escalate emotionally heightened situations and prevent violence.

Terms & Conditions
View our cancellation policy and other information regarding your live virtual workshop or for your in-person workshop.
This is a live virtual event, please check your system requirements prior to registering.
Participants will receive the Zoom meeting login details and information about viewing the live virtual workshop by email 3-4 calendar days prior to the date of the event.
Please note, payment is required in order to receive the login details.

Trainer: Leita McInnis
Leita (she/her) is an organizer, advocate, and therapist who supports people impacted by violence, policing, and the criminal (in)justice systems. Drawing on anti-oppressive, transformative, relational, and trauma-informed approaches in her practice, she works to support individuals as they unpack the impacts of systemic oppression and journey towards healing, wholeness, and reclamation. Prioritizing community-led initiatives, group work, and radical community building, Leita is committed to decolonization, resistance, and the de-professionalization of therapy. Her practice focuses on the complexities of violence, dismantling the perpetrator/survivor binary, accountability, repair, and transformation. She has a profound belief that no one is disposable and comes to this work with a commitment to radical compassion, curiosity, and humility. As a trainer, Leita invites participants to reflect on their own experiences, co-creating a learning space where everyone feels comfortable to share their successes. She also provides opportunities to reflect on more difficult experiences, ask questions, and learn practical, relational approaches to supporting others.

Management and Supervision: The Crucial Skills
2025-12-02 | Online
One of the most difficult and often overlooked aspects of moving into a supervisory or management position is developing the skills necessary to truly manage people. Without intentional training, many new managers are left to figure things out on their own – for better or worse. Like all skills, effective management and supervisory skills must be learned. This workshop presents the crucial skills for managing employment relationships from beginning to end, with particular focus on hiring and performance management. Participants will also consider how their communication and personal approach to management affects the people they lead.

Learning Objectives
Upon completion, participants should be able to:

To appreciate the critical role of management and supervision in creating healthy workplaces
To understand their own management style and how that may affect those they supervise
How to hire and initiate the employment relationship to create the best chance of generating engagement
How to manage the employment relationship through performance management practices
How to initiate discipline in ways that are respectful and dignified for all parties

Method of Delivery
Presentation, video, case study examples, experiential practice, personal reflection, delivered electronically.

Some of the Topics Included

The Role of Management
Essential Management Aptitudes and Skills
Management Styles Assessment
How to Adapt Your Management Style
Hiring New Employees for Talent and Fit
Managing Employee Performance
Writing Objective Performance Evaluations
Stages of Progressive Discipline
Terminating the Employment Relationship

Target Audience
This is an introductory-intermediate level workshop for leaders, managers and supervisors, and anyone who is a leader within an organization.

Terms & Conditions
View our cancellation policy and other information regarding your live virtual workshop or for your in-person workshop.
This is a live virtual event, please check your system requirements prior to registering.
Participants will receive the Zoom meeting login details and information about viewing the live virtual workshop by email 3-4 calendar days prior to the date of the event.
Please note, payment is required in order to receive the login details.

Trainer: Marc Charbonneau
Marc is an entrepreneurial business consultant with over 20 years of leadership experience, specializing in strategic planning, business development, and project management. He is a graduate from the Royal Military College of Canada with a Bachelor of Computer Engineering. Marc served in the Royal Canadian Navy as a Naval Combat Systems Engineering Officer. Upon retirement from the RCN, Marc transitioned to the private sector. He has held progressive leadership positions at Lockheed Martin Canada, Bluedrop Training and Simulation, Ultra Electronics Maritime Systems, Irving Shipbuilding and the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security. Marc recognizes the importance of supporting and serving those we lead. He believes people are our best assets, and organizations thrive and succeed when our teams are engaged with an inspiring purpose, are guided by values-based leadership, and are supported with processes and tools to get the job done. Marc is an engaging presenter who likes to weave pertinent examples pulled from his personal and professional experiences, and he encourages meaningful exchanges amongst participants to further reinforce the lesson at hand.

Collaborative Solutions for Climate Change: The Role of Professionals in Advancing Climate Justice in Brunei
2025-12-04 04:30 - 05:30 | Online
The Commonwealth Lawyers Association presents Collaborative Solutions for Climate Change: The Role of Professionals in Advancing Climate Justice in Brunei.
7.00am London GMT / 8.00am WAT / 9.00am CAT / 12.30pm IST / 3.00pm MYT, SGT & HKT / 5.00pm PGT / 6.00pm AEDT
Brunei Darussalam, with its rich tropical rainforest and unique socio-economic landscape, faces distinct challenges in addressing climate change equitably. Climate justice—ensuring that climate action is fair, inclusive, and responsive to local contexts—is essential for sustainable development in the region.
This webinar aims to bring together professionals from architecture, engineering, planning, and law to explore collaborative strategies for advancing climate justice in Brunei. It will also serve as a platform to engage government stakeholders, academics, and regional experts in meaningful dialogue.
To enhance engagement and professional connectivity, the event may be hosted using Zoom Events Expo, which includes virtual booths designed primarily for networking. These booths will allow all participants to interact directly with attendees, share insights, and explore potential collaborations in climate-resilient development.
Objectives:

To highlight how professionals—such as architects, engineers, planners, and lawyers—can contribute to fair and inclusive climate solutions.
To showcase successful climate justice initiatives from across the Commonwealth.
To foster collaboration between professional bodies, government agencies, and academia.
To identify actionable strategies for equitable climate adaptation and mitigation in Brunei.
To provide participants with opportunities to connect, exchange ideas, and explore future collaborations.

To register for the event please click here

Reconciling Relations in an Age of Indigenous and Aboriginal Rights
2025-12-04 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
You are invited to sign up for Reconciling Relations in an Age of Indigenous and Aboriginal Rights offered by LexisNexis and co-hosted by the Law Society of Nunavut.
Through expert insights and meaningful dialogue with Alisha Chohan, Renée Pelletier, and Darren Thomas, this webinar will shed light on the progress, challenges, and opportunities that define reconciliation efforts across the country.
This session will explore how Canada is navigating the complex and evolving landscape of reconciliation, examining the legal, cultural, and societal dimensions that shape Indigenous and Aboriginal rights today.
Register here

Deadline for PLC Licence Applications, Amendments, and Cancellations
2025-12-05 | Newfoundland & Labrador
Please be advised that all initial applications for, amendments to, or cancellations of Professional Law Corporation (PLC) licences must be submitted by 5 December 2025 to ensure sufficient time for review and processing before the Christmas break. Applications received after this date may not be processed until the New Year.
The necessary forms are available as follows:

Form 11.03A: Submit this form along with the required documentation to apply for a Professional Law Corporation Licence. Please carefully review the ‘Instructions for Completion’ found at the beginning of Form 11.03A.
Form 11.03B: Submit this form, along with the applicable fee and any required supporting documentation, to the Law Society for amendments to your PLC.
Form 11.07: If you wish to cancel your PLC licence, please submit this completed form and the required documentation as outlined in section 2.

Benchers' Meeting
2025-12-08 | Online
Please note that the next Benchers’ meeting will take place on 8 December 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 on 4 December 2025 to Erin Rowe at erowe@lsnl.ca if you plan to attend the Benchers’ Meeting.

Unusual Will Challenges: What You Need to Know
2025-12-09 13:30 - 15:00 | Online
*This program features real-time video of the presenter with synchronized presentation slides, and a chat feature that allows for live Q & A. SK attendees please verify whether you align with Central (MB) or Mountain (AB) time based on season and location.

Technical Information:
Live webinars allow you to view faculty, see their presentation slides, and ask questions by chat. You will need a current web browser (Chrome (Chrome works best), Safari, Firefox), a wired (better than wireless) connection to the Internet of at least 2 Mbps. You can test your internet speed/bandwidth here. If you miss the live program, you can access the archive, at your convenience, for 60 days.

Who Should Attend
This program is ideal for estate planners and litigators who want to deepen their understanding of novel will challenges, so they can advise clients with confidence.

About the Program
Think you know all the ways a will can be contested? Think again! In this lively, highly practical webinar, experienced trusts and estates practitioner Lynne Butler dives into the unusual and creative ways that wills have and are being challenged in Canada. From drafting mistakes and forgotten promises to family secrets and quirky legal loopholes, Lynne will explain how these challenges arise, when they may succeed, and how to guard and defend against them in your own files. By the end of this seminar, you will be better able to:

Evaluate when a testator’s misunderstanding or mistaken belief may invalidate a will.
Understand the limits of testamentary freedom and how public policy may intersect with discriminatory or questionable bequests.
Identify how factual “unknowns” like secret relationships, hidden heirs, or adoptions can give rise to post-death challenges.
Evaluate when equitable remedies may operate alongside or instead of validity challenges.
Understand the rare but not entirely theoretical pre-death will challenge and the hurdles involved.
Develop strategies to mitigate risk when drafting or defending wills exposed to unusual challenges.

Join us and learn from atypical cases how to more fully protect your client’s intentions. Don’t miss this fun, practical roadmap for identifying and assessing unusual challenges and mitigating drafting and litigation risk. Registration is limited!

Meet Your Presenter
Lynne Butler is a lawyer, mediator, and writer. She graduated from UBC Law School and was called to the Bar in Alberta in 1986. After more than 20 years, thousands of wills drawn and hundreds of estates probated, Lynne joined the estates department of a leading trust company for a further seven years. She now practises law in her home province of Newfoundland and Labrador, working exclusively in wills, estates, probate, elder law, and trusts. Lynne has been interviewed by Global TV, BNN, CBC Radio, the Wall Street Journal, the Globe & Mail, the Vancouver Province, the Edmonton Journal, the Toronto Star and the Montreal Gazette, among other media. She is the former co-host of The Law Show and is the author of ten books about estate planning. She was the reviewer for Newfoundland and Labrador for LexisNexis Drafting Wills in Canada: A Lawyer’s Practical Guide, 3rd Edition. She has chaired the Wills and Estates Section of the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar Admissions Course since 2019.

Understanding the Duty to Accommodate Webinar
2025-12-10 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
The Human Rights Commission invites you to attend Understanding the Duty to Accommodate, an upcoming webinar that will draw on the Commission’s new guide: Understanding the Duty to Accommodate: A Practical Guide for the Workplace.
To register, please click here.
To view the Understanding the Duty to Accommodate: A Practical Guide for the Workplace guideline, please click here.

Benchers’ Reception
2025-12-10 16:00 - 18:00 | 3rd Floor, Law Society Building, 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s, Canada
The President and Benchers of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador request the pleasure of your company at the Benchers’ Reception. Please see the details below:
Where: 196-198 Water Street, St. John’s
When: 10 December 2025
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Please send your RSVP to Erin Rowe at erowe@lsnl.ca by 4 December 2025.
