Submitted by Section Chair, Elena Merritt
Summary of Meetings
Number of Meetings Held: 3
October 20, 2015
Guest Speaker: Jamie Chicanot
Meeting Title/Topic: ADR in the Workplace
Synopsis: Jamie Chicanot of ADR Education presented a skill-focused talk on how ADR can be used in the workplace and how lawyers can use their skills to manage and assist in conflict situations. Mr. Chicanot covered the topics of conflict management systems, workplace investigations, ripeness of conflict, and pathways to resolution. Mr. Chicanot then took questions from the group. He facilitated an engaging discussion on preventing conflict at work and the need for professionals to show a commitment to resolving disputes that may arise there. He concluded with the thought that when, as lawyers and as people, we become skilled at dealing effectively with conflict in the workplace, we are facilitating a positive impact on those around us.
November 12, 2015
Guest Speaker: Pinder Cheema, Q.C., Law Society of B.C.; Dean Lawton, Law Society of B.C.; Derek LaCroix, Lawyers Assistance Program Executive Director
Meeting Title/Topic: Ethics in Practice
Synopsis: Law Society of B.C. Benchers, Pinder Cheema, Q.C. and Dean Lawton, and Lawyers Assistance Program Executive Director Derek LaCroix, Q.C. provided a valuable forum to discuss ethics in ADR. The speakers covered a range of topics, including understanding one’s value system; keeping focus of one’s motivation for being a lawyer; and applying these values in daily work. The speakers concluded with an emphasis that as lawyers, our job is to be a role model, as the example of the application of ethics and values. As well, they suggested that our best approach is to reach out and ask for advice if there is ever a question about an ethical issue. The group emphasized the importance of this type of dialogue and that it should be a crucial part of our legal community.
March 31, 2016
Guest Speaker: Rebecca Alleyne and Michael Butterfield
Meeting Title/Topic: Starting a Mediation Practice
Synopsis: We had lawyer mediators Rebecca Alleyne and Michael Butterfield present on how each developed successful mediation practices. Rebecca Alleyne is a family law mediator in Victoria with her own practice called Victoria Mediation. Michael Butterfield is a lawyer and mediator as well and has a civil and family law mediation practice with Butterfield Law. Each described the road they took to starting a mediation practice, the main motivations behind it, and some of the different challenges and opportunities along the way. The presentation encouraged an insightful discussion on the differences between mediation and litigation and the benefits of mediation in clients’ lives.
Comments and Observations of the Chair
ADR-Victoria Section had a very good and productive year. Our three meetings were well-attended and promoted very thoughtful discussion on important subjects in ADR. Most meetings had a large remote attendance in addition to those participating in Victoria. We have noticed a trend that many members are participating remotely more and more often. We look forward to this upcoming section year and holding new events on subjects that continue to interest members and foster helpful conversation and learning.