Advocacy-Matters-Summer-2022

Q.What are your thoughts on the future of the profession?
A. As advocates and lawyers, we are members of an honourable profession. We continue to play an
important role in our society. I do not see this changing in the future. Like many things in life, the profession
has changed over the years and most of these changes have been positive. The profession has
become more diverse, more inclusive and more in touch with the community we serve, although there
is much more work to be done. On the other hand, the profession has grown considerably. The bar is
no longer as close and collegial as it has been in the past. Notwithstanding these changes, the role of
lawyers representing the interests of their clients and ensuring access to justice for those who require
it remains as important as ever.
I am very excited about the energy and enthusiasm that I see in young advocates. They bring fresh
new ideas on how to do things better to meet the needs of the community we serve. They respect the
traditions of our past, yet recognize the need to adapt to the ever changing world we live in. The need
for advocates is as great now as ever and that is unlikely to change. I enthusiastically encourage young
people to pursue a career in law. The practice of law is a most rewarding career. I believe that lawyers
can and do make a real difference in the lives of so many. I am confident that the advocates of today
are up to the many challenges they will face moving forward.
Q.How has the pandemic impacted your view of the justice system?
A. The pandemic exposed the vulnerability of our justice system. An unknown virus was able to shut
down our judicial system within days. However, the pandemic also demonstrated the resiliency of our
justice system and its ability to adapt and change as needed. The pandemic gave us the opportunity to
make many necessary changes and reforms. Increased resources resulted in enhanced use of technology
in our Courts, which has made a difference.
I am very concerned about the significant delays in our Courts, which are having a profound impact
on access to justice. While these delays pre-existed the pandemic, they have become even more acute,
especially in the civil justice system. Advocates must work together with the Judiciary and Court administrators
to find ways to address these delays. We need to raise awareness of this problem and to
advocate for solutions. We need to explore opportunities to collaborate with other stakeholders in the
justice system to address the problem. Advocates need to do their part to help make our system more
efficient and to reduce unnecessary delays. On balance I am optimistic that our justice system and our
profession will emerge from the pandemic revitalized and reenergized and ready to meet the needs of
our community.
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