LawCast BC The Law Society of BC

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools such as Chat GPT continue to make headlines. Numerous industries, including the legal one, are already feeling the impacts and implications of AI, as well as exploring its potential.We have invited guest speakers Jon Festinger, KC and Robert Diab to chat about the ways that AI has been used to help practice law, the risks in using AI tools and how AI could potentially change how people access legal services. Jon and Robert are working on putting a...

Discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment, in the workplace are serious problems in society, and the legal profession is not immune to it. As the regulatory body for lawyers, the Law Society has an important role in ensuring lawyers do not engage in harassing or discriminatory behaviors. In the latest episode of LawCast BC, Sarah Sharp, Equity Advisor at the Law Society speaks about her role in supporting those who have experienced or witnessed harassment, discrimination...

In this episode, we are going to talk about one of the most critical areas the Law Society is addressing – meaningful Indigenous reconciliation and cultural safety.In July 2023, the Law Society's board of Benchers approved recommendations from the Indigenous Engagement in Regulatory Matters Task Force report, to remove systemic barriers experienced by Indigenous complainants and witnesses. Implementation of the task force’s recommendations is now underway.Hear from Vicki George, Senior Adviso...

A national survey was published last year on the state of legal professionals’ mental health. More than half of respondents in BC reported experiencing psychological distress and many of them said they did not seek help despite needing it. In this episode, we share information about one of the most pressing issues facing the legal profession – mental health. The Law Society is committed to supporting the mental wellness of lawyers and has taken a number of steps to increase access to re...

Conservative Member of Parliament Michael Chong joins host Jon Festinger to talk about the government's use of "orders in council," legal secrecy and the unwritten rule of law on Parliament Hill. Michael Chong was first elected to Parliament in 2004 and represents the riding of Wellington-Halton Hills. He currently serves as Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs for the Official Opposition.He's previously served in the federal cabinet as President of the Queen’s Privy Council, Minister of ...

Renowned criminal defence lawyer Marie Henein joins host Jon Festinger to talk about the role of lawyers, what influenced her to be a lawyer, and current threats to democracy and the rule of law that are taking place around the world.Marie Henein is a senior partner at Henein Hutchison LLP, recognized in Canadian Lawyer as one of the country’s Top Ten Litigation Boutiques. She has been interviewed on CBC’s The National, written for The Globe and Mail, and is a sought-after speaker. She recent...