The Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch is pleased to announce Scott Morishita as our president for the 2023-24 term.
A respected lawyer with experience in personal injury, insurance and municipal law, Morishita brings a strong commitment to advancing the legal profession and promoting wellness within it.
“Top of mind this year is acting on the findings from the National Study on Wellness in the Legal Profession, which tells us what we already know – many Canadian lawyers struggle with their mental health”, says Morishita. “In my capacity as CBABC President, I will draw from my own experience, while engaging with the legal profession to reduce stigma and bring about a general shift in attitude.”
With consultation on the governance of the profession ongoing, lawyer independence is key priority for Morishita: “As the collective voice of almost 7,800 lawyers, judges and students in BC, CBABC is at the forefront of defending the self-regulation of lawyers. This is the only way to maintain independence from government and ensure the rights of our clients are protected. I’ll be connecting with lawyers across the province to make sure all member voices are heard.”
CBABC CEO & Executive Director, Kerry L. Simmons, KC welcomes Morishita to his role as president: "Scott's extensive volunteerism in the legal community and his strong advocacy experience will serve CBABC well as we work to preserve lawyer and judicial independence. We look forward to his leadership on our Board and for our members."
Called to the bar in 2007, Morishita is Associate Counsel at Rice Harbut Elliott LLP, a firm that focuses its practice on personal injury and class action law. He is an avid CBABC volunteer, serving as Vancouver County Rep from 2018-2021, on the Board of Directors since 2020, and on several committees. Read his bio.
About CBABC:
The Canadian Bar Association is the professional organization representing over 38,000 lawyers, judges and law students across Canada with 7,800 members in British Columbia. CBABC members practice at the forefront of the justice system, providing services to British Columbians in every area of law. CBABC is located on the traditional and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Tsleil-Waututh, Squamish and Musqueam First Nations.
To arrange an interview, contact: Laura Chapman | 604.687.5293 ext. 319 | media@cbabc.org