Welcome to my Election blog.

Your comments and participation are most welcome.

I am running for the position of Bencher, Law Society of Upper Canada, Southwest Region.

Before voting, consider the following questions:

Has the LSUC effectively protected your professional interests?

Has it helped resolve the real issues you face as a lawyer?

Has it worked to enhance the legal profession’s reputation?

If you answered “no” to any of these questions, then it’s time to acknowledge that the LSUC has drifted away from one of its mandates: serving its constituency.

As I listen to the concerns of my colleagues – experienced and newly called alike – a common theme emerges. Many believe the LSUC is “out of touch,” that it no longer advocates for our profession. As a result, lawyers feel there is no one who can hear their concerns or protect their integrity.

I practice in a small law firm as a Certified Specialist in Family Law. I have taught the Bar Admission Course, sat on the Essex County Law Association, served as President of the Essex County Family Law Lawyers’ Association and worked as a member of our Bench/Bar committees.

I thoroughly enjoy the practice of family law (for the most part!) but I have deep and troubling concerns. Simply stated, the traditional role of a good lawyer is being eroded. Judges are asked to supervise our files through a series of conferences. Legislation has nibbled away at our independence, diminishing our role and stature with the judiciary and the public.
The time has come to restore a viable civil justice system.

The LSUC must show leadership and take charge. The courtroom doors must remain open. But this depends on an independent judiciary and an independent judiciary cannot stand without a viable civil bar.

These are the key issues as I see them:

1/ The LSUC must aggressively ensure its members maintain the highest standards. We, the members, must take our function as good gatekeepers seriously. We must set a high bar and ensure only those who reach it are permitted to practice.

2/ Once admission to the profession has occurred, regulations must exist to assure the public that members have adequate knowledge and experience to undertake the task at hand. This will enhance our credibility with the public, judiciary, and legislators.

3/ We must take ownership and responsibility for the purpose we serve. A court system which is not accessible by all citizens is not an open system. We should never shrink from the responsibility this unique function provides.

Why I’m running

A Bencher must be a practical problem solver who blends insight with realism, and is passionate about protecting the interests of his profession. I am running for Bencher because I believe I have these qualities. With your support, I will apply my skills and experience as an independent thinker, team player, good listener and problem solver to the task of getting the LSUC working for the good of our profession again.

As a Bencher, I will help the LSUC get back on course and I will help our profession regain the respect and viability it deserves.

I would be honoured if you granted me the opportunity to begin that process.