New: The Attorney General has released a Public Update on the proposed model for the single regulator, which considers input from CBABC and other organizations. CBABC is engaging with the profession to collect feedback on this update. Find out more ❱

8:30am – 12:30pm

Independence of the Bar
Is it acceptable for lawyers to be criticized in public? Is it just part of the ‘dialogue’ between the justice system and elected officials? If so, where is the line between political statements and lawyer independence? How do we weigh the public interest against the rights of clients and interests of lawyers? Presenters examine these questions and consider the ethical role of the lawyer when it comes to protecting their clients’ interests.

Speakers:
Marilyn Sandford, KC, Lawyer, Ritchie Sandford McGowan Barristers
David Layton, KC, Appeals Prosecutor, Ministry of Attorney General

A New Regulatory Framework
The new Legal Professions Act will propose one regulator for lawyers, notaries and paralegals. But will this new model meet the test of lawyer self-regulation and sufficiently protect the independence of the Bar? How will this impact the way legal services are delivered? If you haven't had time to learn about the regulatory changes, now you can hear from the main people involved.

Speakers:
Jeevyn Dhaliwal, KC, President, Law Society of BC
Scott Morishita, President, Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch
The Hon. Niki Sharma, KC, Attorney General of BC 

Judicial Independence
Hear from judges themselves on how they approach difficult cases and unpopular decisions, while managing courtroom conduct. They reflect on judicial independence in today’s hostile environment and discuss what role the government, Bench and Bar play to uphold this principle.

Speakers:
The Hon. Chief Justice Christopher Hinkson, Supreme Court of BC
The Rt. Hon. Beverley McLachlin, Former Chief Justice of Canada
The Hon. Judge David St. Pierre, Provincial Court of BC

Learn about the Speakers   

Order of presentations may be subject to change.