2025

A number of different factors are making judges harder to recruit, which is causing some civil trials to be delayed for years

Legislation combines notaries, paralegals, and lawyers under one regulator

Lawyers, paralegals and notaries would all be under one regulatory umbrella with proposed changes

Kerry Simmons, KC's interview on Jill Bennett Show (CKNW)

The B.C. government has unveiled long-promised legislation to bring lawyers, paralegals and notaries under the umbrella of one regulator. But the provincial law society and bar association have both come out swinging against the proposals, saying they would erode the independence of the legal profession.

The Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch announced today that it does not support the Legal Professions Act, newly introduced by the B.C. government.

A Public Update from the Ministry of the Attorney General includes some details about the proposed governance structure regarding the single regulator for lawyers, notaries and paralegals. CBABC appreciates more details but continues to call for full transparency.

There’s a movement underway in the legal community to focus attention on the proper pronunciation of names in legal settings. There is a growing recognition that the proper pronunciation of names shows respect and is more inclusive. The minimal effort involved in promoting the proper pronunciation of names can result in a more welcoming and respectful hearing room.

Budget comes after $29M in legal aid funding announced to aid survivors of intimate partner violence

The Canadian Bar Association, B.C. Branch (CBABC) is expressing its “deep disappointment” with the recent provincial budget, saying it does not include appropriate provisions for legal aid to help the most vulnerable in the province.