Fuel your growth

Children's Law

Children’s Capacity and Privacy Interests

Suzette Narbonne, KC, and Jade Buchana examine evolving legal issues surrounding children's participation in decision-making, their privacy rights, and the challenges practitioners face when balancing protection, autonomy, and access to information.

Workplace Investigations

Workplace Environmental Assessments 101

Jennifer Hawkins, Hawkins Lang & Price LLP, and Leanne Walsh, West Coast Workplace Law discuss an alternative, or addition to, workplace investigations: workplace environmental assessments. The speakers will discuss the utility of this tool to proactively engage employees, diagnose workplace issues and make meaningful recommendations to address them

CBABC

Ask a Lawyer Anything (TRU)

Have questions about career paths, articling, networking, work-life balance, or what life as a lawyer is really like? The Ask a Lawyer Anything lunch will be an informal panel discussion featuring local lawyers from a variety of practice areas.

Wills and Trusts - Okanagan

Know When to Call your Accountant: Tax Traps in Estates and Trusts for Estate Lawyers

Nicole Heiss, CPA, and Jonathan Cone, CPA, go over some of the things that estate lawyers need to know about the taxation of estates and trusts, such as the basics of GREs and how you can taint a GRE, AET/JST taxation, QDTs, QSTs, post-mortem tax planning, and deadlines to watch out for.

Internationally Trained Lawyers

Law Without Borders Discussion Group

This is a chance for internationally trained lawyers to connect and engage in discussions about the stress of transitions and how to create sanctuary, support and networking. Join Dr. Demola Okeowo, Barrister, Solicitor & Notary, MuritonRose Law Firm, as he shares his stories, knowledge, and experiences.

Women Lawyers Forum

Speed Mentoring

This high-energy speed mentoring event is designed to deliver real career insight, fast. The experience begins with a casual networking lunch before mentoring rounds kick off. Mentees rotate between mentors in small groups, diving straight into practical career topics and honest conversation. Gain targeted advice and new professional connections in a short, impactful session. Spots are limited.

CBABC

AI in the Small Firm

Small law firms in B.C. now have access to a range of AI tools, and using them well depends on an understanding of both the technology and the professional obligations that accompany it. An AI governance & risk professional, Michael Litchfield, examines practical applications of AI in two areas: firm operations and legal practice.

Immigration Law

The Changing Face of Refugee Protection: From Bill C-12 to the Online Portal

Join Joshua Prowse, Lawyer, Haven Law, Karina Juma, Canadian Immigration & Refugee Lawyer, Heron Law, and Martin Mundel from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, for a practical look at the changing landscape of refugee protection.

Public Sector Lawyers

Public Sector Lawyers and Pro Bono Service: Opportunities and Impacts

Trevor Bant and Michael Kleisinger, KC, share their experiences volunteering with Access Pro Bono, navigating conflicts of interest, professional obligations, insurance coverage, and the rewarding ways they can support access to justice in British Columbia.

Civil Litigation

Insolvency 101 for Civil Litigators

Daniel Nugent and Heather McCann deliver an informative presentation covering main issues which arise at the intersection of civil litigation and insolvency while providing litigators with practical advice on navigating the insolvency of the defendant (both before and after the music stops).

ADR - Nanaimo

Transformative Mediation

Join Louise Phipps Senft, Founder and CEO, Baltimore Mediation, is an attorney and recognized transformative mediator, who shares her knowledge and expertise. She draws on her extensive experience in family law, commercial disputes, and healthcare matters.

Legal Research

Core Skills and New Tools for Legal Research

As AI becomes more common in legal research, mastering essential research skills and learning how to confidently incorporate AI into your workflow is key. Join Nolan Hurlburt, Yu-Sen (Sam) Zhai, and Husayn Jamal to discuss and compare legal research AI with general-purpose AI, highlighting where each fits. They also share key considerations for firm policies, confidentiality, and data retention when using commercial versus public AI tools for legal research.

CBABC & VBA

Maritime Law Dinner

Come aboard for the Annual Maritime Law Section Dinner, an evening where legal professionals gather to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas, and celebrate the maritime legal community.

Immigration Law

Overseas Lawyers Group (November)

An informal roundtable discussion and a longstanding favourite. Exchange insights and hear what immigration practitioners are facing in their day-to-day clients and files.

Insurance Law

Emond v Trillium 2026 SCC 3: The Interpretation of Standard Form Insurance Policies

Gordon Hilliker, K.C. retired lawyer, discusses the Supreme Court of Canada's new framework for the interpretation of standard form insurance policies.

Legal Research

BCLI's Guide to Trauma-Informed Legal Writing

Alison Wilkinson introduces British Columbia Law Institute (BCLI) ’s Guide to Trauma-Informed Legal Writing. She explores best practices for writing clearly and accessibly, avoiding assumptions and biases, and using empathetic and respectful language. Participants learn how trauma-informed writing can help reduce harm, foster trust collaboration, and contribute to a more equitable legal system.

CBABC

Federal and Provincial Lobbying Law for Charities and Non-Profit Organizations

Guy Giorno provides an overview of how federal and British Columbia lobbying legislation applies to charities and not-for-profit organizations. Topics include regulated communications, registration responsibilities, exceptions, grants, when public appeals constitute federal lobbying, the overlap between PPDDAs and lobbying laws, enforcement, and best practices.

CBABC

Yale County Bench & Bar Dinner 2026

Join solicitors, litigators, and judges from across Yale County for an evening of connection and camaraderie, plus a live performance by Pleading Hearts, the 2026 Battle of the Bar Band Okanagan champions.

Animal Law

Canadian Food Inspection Agency vs Universal Ostrich Farms: The Culling of Ostriches

Umar Sheikh focuses on the legal proceedings between the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the Universal Ostrich Farms near Edgewood, BC concerning the culling of ostriches. 

Immigration Law

A World of Connections

Meet up with Victoria immigration practitioners. Bring your ideas, discuss challenging cases, and make lasting connections.

Aboriginal Law - Vancouver

The Future of the Framework Agreement

Hear from Virginia Coulthard, Andrew Beynon, Patti Wight, Denise Unger, and Amy Jo Scherman as they review potential amendments to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management and examine the implications these changes may have.

Real Property

Understanding Certificates of Pending Litigation: Assessing Their Impact on Real Estate Transactions and Disputes

Liza Volpiana, Partner, Sampson Davie Fane Volpiana LLP, and Ola Stoklosa, Senior Associate, Singleton Urquhart Reynolds Vogel LLP, provide an overview on the role of Certificates of Pending Litigation (CPLs), their implications for real estate transactions and disputes and the practical considerations lawyers should keep in mind when advising clients and more.

Real Property

Understanding Certificates of Pending Litigation: Assessing Their Impact on Real Estate Transactions and Disputes

Liza Volpiana, Partner, Sampson Davie Fane Volpiana LLP, and Ola Stoklosa, Senior Associate, Singleton Urquhart Reynolds Vogel LLP, provide an overview on the role of Certificates of Pending Litigation (CPLs), their implications for real estate transactions and disputes and the practical considerations lawyers should keep in mind when advising clients and more.

CBABC

Surviving your Trust Audit

Take the advice of a solo firm entrepreneur, Dimple Kainth, and chartered professional accountant, Justin Wright, as they discuss how to get ahead of an audit, what to do if your firm is selected and frameworks that better support compliance.

Aboriginal Law - Vancouver Island

Rooted in Community, United in Practice

Whether you're an experienced practitioner or new to Aboriginal Law, join this opportunity to meet colleagues in a casual and welcoming atmosphere. Share insights, expand your network, and build lasting professional connections over an evening of meaningful conversation.

In-House Lawyers

Something Doesn't Seem Right: What Happens Next?

Join Lilac Bosma, Senior Legal Executive and Trusted Advisor, Southern Law, as she dives into internal investigations. She’ll discuss how in-house counsel can properly strategize, maintain privilege, manage the crisis, while enhancing the company’s culture and credibility.

CBABC

Scaling Up for Success

Firm leaders Kara Duncand and James Gill reflect on how they knew they were ready to evolve and how they went about scaling their firms up. Learn how to assess capacity, profitability and potential risks when making these moves yourself.

CBABC

Assessing BC's Reconciliation Reality

Heiltsuk-Tsimshian Nations and Kitasoo Xai'xais First Nation lawyer, Merle Alexander, KC, examines where the Reconciliation landscape is today with a review of the Building Canada Act, UNDRIP implementation, and Aboriginal title.

CBABC

Surviving your Trust Audit

Take the advice of a solo firm entrepreneur, Dimple Kainth, and chartered professional accountant, Justin Wright, as they discuss how to get ahead of an audit, what to do if your firm is selected and frameworks that better support compliance.

CBABC

Rules Update: Navigating the Changes to Chambers Practice

Join Justice William Veenstra, Tim Delaney, KC, and Daniel MacNeill to discuss the changes to Rule 8-1 of the Supreme Court Civil Rules and Rule 10-6 of the Supreme Court Family Rules coming into effect on October 1, 2026.

CBABC

Scaling Up for Success

Firm leaders Kara Duncand and James Gill reflect on how they knew they were ready to evolve and how they went about scaling their firms up. Learn how to assess capacity, profitability and potential risks when making these moves yourself.

CBABC

This is Privileged, Right?

This session highlights critical issues for in-house counsel, including identifying the client, distinguishing legal advice from business advice, understanding the waiving of privilege, and maintaining privilege during internal investigations.

CBABC

Year in Review

Updating your practice calls for a recap of all the latest happenings in the field of wills, estates and trusts. From significant legislation updates and key litigation decisions to noteworthy and unusual cases, this session covers the practical implications lawyers want to know. Hear from a panel of early-career Victoria lawyers as they summarize the past year and discuss the rollover effects.

CBABC

Law Society Tribunal Decisions: Lawyers’ Obligations When Acting for Elderly Clients with Diminished Capacity

Alina Morrissey, Discipline Counsel, Law Society of British Columbia, examines recent Law Society Tribunal decisions involving lawyers acting for elderly clients with diminished capacity.

CBABC

Core Skills and New Tools for Legal Research

As AI becomes more common in legal research, mastering essential research skills and learning how to confidently incorporate AI into your workflow is key. Join Nolan Hurlburt, Yu-Sen (Sam) Zhai, and Husayn Jamal to discuss and compare legal research AI with general-purpose AI, highlighting where each fits. They also share key considerations for firm policies, confidentiality, and data retention when using commercial versus public AI tools for legal research.

CBABC

O’Connor v. Mills: A Garden of Forking Paths

Join Alex Boland and Derek Sanders for a mind-bending discussion of exclusions, tracing, and changes in value in the wake of O’Connor v. Mills.

CBABC

Admin Law 101: Issues Regarding Procedural Fairness

Let's go back to basics! Jeffrey Hernaez, Counsel, Olthuis van Ert, and Paul Kressock, Partner, Lawson Lundell, discuss recent application of foundational cases, focusing on procedural fairness issues in administrative law and judicial reviews.

CBABC

H@cked! Experience a Live (Simulated) Cyber Attack

McCarthy Tétrault’s Cyber/Data group takes you through a simulation of a cyber attack, focusing on the role of the legal team. You’ll get to experience what it’s like to give real-time legal advice on breach reporting, privilege, risk mitigation, confidentiality and more.

CBABC

Diversity on the Bench 2026

Great judges are defined by more than just legal knowledge. Build your application with a clear understanding of the responsibilities of a Provincial and Supreme Court judge and what decision-makers are looking for beyond credentials.

CBABC

Pension Division Q&A: Breakdown of a Relationship in British Columbia

A practical overview of the Questions and Answers about Pension Division on the Breakdown of a Relationship in British Columbia guide, lead by Beatrice McCutcheon and Colin Galinksi. This session is specially curated for family lawyers.

CBABC

Navigating Pre-Sale Disputes: Issues and Insights from Experts

Camelia Alikashani, Watson Goepel LLP, Layne Hellrung, Cook Roberts LLP, Nerissa Yan, Yan Muirhead LLP, and Wes McMillan, Allan McMillan Law Corporation, address a discrete topic arising from presale disputes. The discussion focuses on practical considerations, recent case law, and strategic insights for counsel acting for purchasers, developers, or other stakeholders.

CBABC

Investigating Gender-Based Harassment and Masculine Workplace Culture

Robert Richler, Bernardi Human Resource Law LLP, provides investigators with a practical, evidence-based framework focused on words, triggers, patterns and consequence.

CBABC

The Stand Against Indigenous Racism

Led by Marissa McIntyre of Len Pierre Consulting, this anti-racism training session explores allyship in the context of Indigenous Peoples, while identifying strategies for discussing racism and cultural safety in non-combative ways with your team.

CBABC

Critical Path, Critical Conversations: Construction Delay Claims

Join John Logan, KC, Partner, Jenkins Marzban Logan LLP, and Kerry Short, Senior Counsel, Mediator & Arbitrator, Cornish Margolis Boyd, as they discuss challenges of mediating delay claims, preparing for mediation, and mediation dynamics and techniques.

CBABC

Moving Beyond the Stigma

Staying silent isn’t helping anyone. Leaders in law speak honestly about the line between advocacy and bullying, anxiety’s impact and offer suggestions to achieve mental well-being.

CBABC

AI in the Small Firm

Small law firms in B.C. now have access to a range of AI tools, and using them well depends on an understanding of both the technology and the professional obligations that accompany it. An AI governance & risk professional, Michael Litchfield, examines practical applications of AI in two areas: firm operations and legal practice.

CBABC

Children's Capacity and Privacy Interests

Suzette Narbonne, KC, and Jade Buchanan examine evolving legal issues surrounding children's participation in decision-making, their privacy rights, and the challenges practitioners face when balancing protection, autonomy, and access to information.

CBABC

The Problem of the Missing Person

Catherine Bunio explores legal procedures and practical strategies for navigating these unusual circumstances, including passing over an executor, dispensing with P1 notice, and bringing proceedings under the Presumption of Death Act or Estates of Missing Persons Act.

CBABC

Contract Law Update for Commercial Practitioners

Lawson Lundell's Lisa A. Peters, K.C., Senior Counsel, and Catherine Whitehead, Partner, review key decisions that have significantly developed or clarified the law of contract or notably reaffirmed longstanding contractual principles while at the same time illustrating their practical application.

CBABC

From Default to Foreclosure: Navigating Distressed Real Estate Transactions in BC

Camelia Alikashani, Watson Goepel LLP, Layne Hellrung, Cook Roberts LLP, Nerissa Yan, Yan Muirhead LLP, and Wes McMillan, Allan McMillan Law Corporation, address a discrete topic arising from presale disputes. The discussion focuses on practical considerations, recent case law, and strategic insights for counsel acting for purchasers, developers, or other stakeholders.

CBABC

Strategies for Persuasive Writing

Dr. Lisa Surridge hosts a hands-on workshop that will help you write with greater precision and impact. Whether preparing pleadings, factums, contracts, or emails, discover practical techniques to make writing more effective and easier to read.

CBABC

Aboriginal Case Law – Annual Review with Robert Janes, KC

2025 has been a landmark year for Aboriginal law. Please join Robert Janes, KC, as he reviews what came down in 2025 – and what might be on the horizon for 2026. This insightful review is a must for anyone practicing in this ever-evolving area of law.

CBABC

The Art of Client Attraction

Adopt practical strategies to balance your billable work with business development and build a steady flow of clients.

CBABC

Annual B.C. Human Rights Tribunal Update

BC Human Rights Tribunal Chair, Emily Ohler, KC, and Vice Chair, Devyn Cousineau, provide attendees with an annual update from the Tribunal. Topics include the Tribunal's current pressures, new processes, and complaint timelines.

Immigration Law

Overseas Lawyers Group (January)

An informal roundtable discussion and a longstanding favourite. Exchange insights and hear what immigration practitioners are facing in their day-to-day clients and files.

Charities and Not-for-Profit Law

Meet Your Community!

Kick off the new year with great conversations, new connections, and familiar faces! Join your community for a fun and relaxed opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, reconnect with colleagues, exchange ideas, and spark new relationships. Let’s start the year on a high note and make new connections together!

Immigration Law

BC PNP Update

PNP officials provide a focused briefing on recent program changes, a look back at last year’s nomination stats, and practical insights for your practice. The session wraps with an interactive Q&A to address your clients’ most pressing issues.

Immigration Law

Overseas Lawyers Group (February)

An informal roundtable discussion and a longstanding favourite. Exchange insights and hear what immigration practitioners are facing in their day-to-day clients and files.

Immigration Law

Overseas Lawyers Group (April)

An informal roundtable discussion and a longstanding favourite. Exchange insights and hear what immigration practitioners are facing in their day-to-day clients and files.