On behalf of the Executive, I would like to offer a warm welcome to all members for an exciting new year ahead! I would like to thank past Chair Frank W. McBrearty for his hard work and leadership over the 2022/2023 year. I would also like to introduce and thank my fellow officers this year: Shairoze Damji (Vice-Chair) and Shannon Belvedere (Secretary). Also, thank you to the branch chairs and members-at-large from across the country (new and returning) for your work and dedication to the Section. I look forward to working with all of you!
The National Section’s name has been updated from Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to Dispute Resolution (DR) effective this year to better reflect the nature of dispute resolution in Canada. Keep in mind that not all provincial or territorial Sections followed suit, but whether the name is Alternative Dispute Resolution or Dispute Resolution, our initiatives will remain informative and engaging!
The Section’s mandate continues to be to promote DR as a growing field and examine issues surrounding different approaches, including arbitration, collaborative law, facilitation, and mediation, among others. As part of this work, the Section liaises with both the Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of Canada (ADRIC) and the American Bar Association (ABA) Section of Dispute Resolution.
One of the highlights from last year was our online symposium: “Mediation, Resolution, and Innovation“. The Symposium covered topics such as tips for mediators and counsel, defusing techniques, and work-based solutions to resolve employment disputes. The recording is available. We are hoping to build on the success of our last symposium over this next year, with more programming.
Looking ahead, we are planning to offer Professional Development opportunities for you. Recently, we hosted a webinar on Conflict Resolution Day (October 19) on the topic of mediating class actions. The recording is available if you missed the session!
If you are interested in volunteering with the Section, please let us know. There are several committees that you may wish to join, such as Professional Development, Outreach, or Communications.
We look forward to seeing you at one of our Section events!
Initiatives for 2023-2024
James L. Thistle, K.C. 2024 Law Student Essay Contest
We are once again holding our Law Student Essay Contest! We will begin to accept submissions in the New Year. The deadline is May 2, 2024. Check out the essay contest rules and past winning submissions. Please share with your network!
Call for Member Articles
Our Section is looking to feature member articles in Possibilities. If you are interested in having an article published, please let us know! Our Secretary, Shannon Belvedere, would be happy to connect with you.
PD Initiatives
2024 will be a great year for Professional Development Initiatives. Our Section will be hosting a podcast episode in 2024, as well as other events! Details will follow once they become available.
If you are you interested in participating in our PD initiatives this year, our professional development committee would love to hear from you. Contact Afsana Gibson-Chowdhury for more information.
Upcoming PD
Mark your calendars and register for these upcoming PD events:
Kind Regards,
Elena Merritt,
Chair 2023-2024, CBA Dispute Resolution Section