Program

Lawyers who practice family law have a tough job. Every day British Columbians rely on you to tackle their everyday problems. Take a step away from the desk this April and learn new tools to become a more effective and well-rounded lawyer. With tips on the best family law practices, new technology and common mistakes to avoid, you’ll be equipped to provide exceptional support and make a lasting impact in your clients’ lives.

This conference offers unique insights into a wide range of family law topics from experts in the field. Listen, workshop and network with speakers and other family law lawyers by day and relax at the Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa by night.

Register

Year in Review
Analyze the latest in family law trial and appellate case law developments, along with a review of recent Rule amendments.

Speaker: Todd Bell, Farris LLP

Mastering the Art of Business Valuations
Establishing the value of a business is crucial during divorce or estate planning to make sure everyone gets their fair share. Gain a better understanding of valuation reports and how to apply financial concepts in your negotiations and court proceedings. Master these skills to integrate business valuation expertise into your family law practice.

Speakers
Scott Y. Amano, Amano Financial Advisory Services Ltd
Leneigh Bosdet, Pushor Mitchell LLP
Derek M Sanders, Spence Valuation Group

The What, Why and How of FOAEAA
Federal sources can provide crucial details about a person to help with support and parenting orders, such as their address, employer information and income. Explore the Family Orders and Agreements Enforcement Assistance Act to understand what it covers, why it’s useful and how to use it to your advantage.

Speakers  
Erin Brook, Brook Law
Andrea Swabuk-Moe, YSM Family Law LLP

Cyberfraud & Indemnity Claims: Lessons Learned & Best Practices
Explore Lawyers Indemnity Fund family claim files and get tips on how to avoid common mistakes. Learn what you need to know about your indemnity policy and how to watch for the latest cybercrimes targeting lawyers today.

Speaker: Maryanne Prohl, Lawyers Indemnity Fund

The Contested Family File Playbook
From pleadings to trial and everything in between. Explore the judicial anatomy of a contested family file and equip yourself with strategies for handling the unexpected, avoiding mistakes and applying best practices for a successful outcome. Hear directly from a BC Supreme Court justice on how to mitigate frustration from judges by improving your courtroom skills.

Speakers
The Honourable Justice Briana Hardwick, Supreme Court of BC
Julia Chalkley, Connect Family Law

Level Up Your Practice with AI
Take your practice to the next level in this interactive workshop and discover how AI can transform your legal research and document drafting. With AI, you’ll streamline your processes, customize workflows, reduce errors and enhance efficiency. This isn’t just a workshop—it’s your gateway to the future of legal innovation.

Speakers
Daniela Cangelosi, LEAP
Puneet Mann, Mahogany Law
Christine Montgomery, DivorceMate
Malcolm Muthulingum, LEAP

Six Feet Under and Still Holding the Funds
When someone dies their legal case can live on and causes unexpected challenges for the people they leave behind. In this session, unravel the complex web of probate and estate issues that intersect with family support matters.

Speaker: Jasmeet K Wahid, Aaron Gordon Daykin Nordlinger LLP

Say Goodbye to the “Sunday Scaries”
The anxiety and dread that creep in as the workweek looms can be overwhelming. For many lawyers, the guilt of enjoying a weekend break instead of working can be a heavy burden. Prioritize your mental health with a wellness upgrade to your family law toolkit.

Speakers
Alex Boland, Connect Family Law
Taryn Moore, Pushor Mitchell

Meet the Speakers    Register

We thank the Family Law - Okanagan Section Executive for their help with planning the conference.

Heidi Taylor, Chair, FH&P Lawyers LLP

Erin Bowman, Vice-Chair, Bowman Law Centre

Bree R. Hankins, Law & Policy Liaison, Pihl Law Corporation

Alexander J. Boland, Member At Large, Connect Family Law

Leneigh M. Bosdet, Member At Large, Pushor Mitchell LLP

Order of sessions may be subject to change and timing will be provided closer to the start of the conference.