CBABC in the News

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.

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.

British Columbia will expand legal aid coverage and open a new family law clinic focused on survivors of intimate partner violence.

"Judges make decisions that affect our lives, our livelihoods and, in some cases, our freedom. Canadians have a constitutional right to have their legal disputes or issues decided by independent judges who can decide cases impartially and without interference from anyone, especially government."

The Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch (CBABC) submitted recommendations to BC’s Attorney General to reform s. 211 of the Family Law Act, calling for standardization of these reports. This submission is part of BC's ongoing initiative to reform the Family Law Act.

B.C.'s attorney general recently made comments in the media and online that "risk undermining the public’s confidence in the criminal justice system," according to a letter published by the British Columbia Branch of the Canadian Bar Association.