Submitted by Section Co-Chair, Megan Olson
Summary of Meetings
Number of Meetings Held: 2
December 18, 2014
Guest Speakers: Sharon MacGregor, Smithers Judicial Case Manager and Manager of Supreme Court Scheduling
Meeting Title/Topic: JCM Secrets
Synopsis: A lunch and learn with the Smithers Judicial Case Manager and Manager of Supreme Court Scheduling, Sharon MacGregor. Ms. MacGregor updated us on practices and procedures for both Provincial and Supreme Court scheduling. She introduced us to the Provincial Court Scheduling Project and what we can expect from these changes. And she let us know how to make both her and our lives easier!
February 17, 2015
Guest Speaker: Judith Doulis, Administrative Crown Counsel, Smithers Crown Counsel Office
Meeting Title/Topic: The Gladue Report
Synopsis: A lunch and learn with guest speaker Judith Doulis, Smithers Administrative Crown Counsel. Judith gave an update on Gladue Reports, including information on their use and application, and an update on case law. It was a great session for criminal defence counsel, Crown counsel, those involved in First Nations courts and anyone who wanted to join a great discussion!
Comments and Observations of the Chair
We hosted two lunch time learning sessions this year that were very well received. The participants enjoyed the small group setting and lively discussions.
In the upcoming year, in Smithers, we are planning to host a session on the Family Maintenance Enforcement Program, as well as a joint session with the Criminal Justice - Prince Rupert Section on the topic of billing.
With the addition of new executive members from Prince Rupert and Terrace, we are also hoping to expand our meetings to involve lawyers there as well.
We welcome any feedback on topics of interest to our members!