The Law Society is pleased to congratulate the Alberta recipients of the 2020 WILL Stronger Together Award, our very own President-Elect, Darlene W. Scott, QC, and Jane Wachowich.

Ms. Scott is proud to have been involved in the Law Society’s adoption of equity, diversity and inclusion issues as a part of our Strategic Plan, and growing our focus on lawyer wellness. Throughout the pandemic, Ms. Scott has worked tirelessly with our Executive Leadership Team to facilitate continued access to justice in Alberta and to aid the profession. Find out more from Ms. Scott on what it means to receive this award.

In addition to a pro bono practice in the areas of corporate law and humanitarian work, Ms. Wachowich is the founder and Executive Director of Youth Centres of Calgary. As soon as Calgary schools closed because of the pandemic, Ms. Wachowich and the YCC began giving out lunches to school children and their parents. The program later expanded to a new "grab and go" site and partnered with Meals on Wheels and other local agencies to expand the amount of food and other goods they could distribute including grocery bags with free pantry items to make at home, refurbished sports equipment, books, and gift cards. Find out more from Ms. Wachowich on what it means to receive this award.

Mentors and mentees are invited to register now for the upcoming 2021 Mentor Express program year.

Mentor Express is an easy, low-commitment way to connect with experienced lawyers in the profession and gather valuable advice, particularly as we navigate these uncertain times. Just like online shopping, mentees browse through mentor profiles and select mentors for one-time meetings based on their availability.

As a mentee, you get to choose the mentors you’re interested in meeting with, without committing to a long-term mentor relationship. As a mentor, you have the opportunity to meet with several up-and-coming lawyers in a flexible schedule that works for you.

Mentors only need to commit to six one-hour sessions, providing greater flexibility for busy lawyers interested in the program. There is no cost to register and the program is available to all Alberta lawyers and articling students.

If you are interested in participating in Mentor Express, register as a mentee or mentor.

For more information, visit our website or contact Mentorship@lawsociety.ab.ca.

The Indigenous Summer Student Program (ISSP) for first and second year law students is recruiting firms and organizations to participate in the 2021 summer student cycle. Postings for 2L positions are available on our website and 1L positions will start to be posted in mid-December. 

Firms and organizations that are interested in participating can review the criteria for program and submit their application.

Over the past 15 years, this program has received wide support, with employment opportunities from small firms, large firms, government and organizations. The Law Society of Alberta does not have a role in the interview or hiring process or the employment relationship, but will provide ongoing support and education to program participants, firms and organizations. 

We encourage you to submit your applications as soon as possible, and if you have questions please reach out to the Program Coordinator.

Given the ongoing public health crisis, the Courts are continuing to take proactive preventative measures to protect justice system participants and reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Access to all courthouses in the province of Alberta continues to be restricted until further notice. Click here to read the full announcement.

The Camrose and Killam Provincial Courts are temporarily closed. For more information, read the announcement on the provincial court website.