Why The Advocates’ Society?
“I consider this first meeting of the Society an historic occasion. In these times of unrest, when the rights and liberties of the people are slowly being infringed upon and taken away ... we need more than ever a strong, independent and courageous bar.”
Isadore Levinter, Q.C., May 17, 1965
Members of The Advocates' Society recognize that effective advocacy is important to their clients, the courts and the pursuit of justice. We’re concerned about issues affecting our profession and about the speedy resolution of every kind of dispute or legal issue. We’re always seeking to improve our skills and share what we've learned with others. Join an association of advocates whose members are proud of their profession and dedicated to their clients and their community.
What we do for you
What’s important to you as an advocate?
Keeping your skills razor-sharp?
The Advocates’ Society is the premier provider of advocacy skills training in Ontario, with programs for all stages of your career. Our publications provide helpful tips and in-depth analysis from practitioners who’ve learned on their feet and are happy to share their knowledge.
Having a voice on issues that affect your profession, your practice and your bottom line?
The Advocates’ Society regularly takes a stand, intervenes in the courts and makes submissions to governments on your behalf. Our members are regularly appointed to key consultative committees and act as amicus curiae. You’re concerned about access to justice, vanishing trials, solicitor-client privilege, and civility and professionalism . So are we, and we do something about it. The Advocates' Society is recognized throughout the legal profession and beyond for our success in legal reform.
Learning from the experience of seasoned advocates?
Our mentoring dinners and receptions around the province give newer advocates unparalleled opportunity to discuss issues related to your practice with senior members of the bench and the bar in settings that are relaxed and collegial.
Building a network of your peers for referrals and consultation? Enjoying the company of fellow members of the bench and the bar at social events?
It’s no secret that visibility is an important part of marketing yourself and your practice. The more you are known, the more likely yours will be the name people think of when they have questions to ask and cases to share. It’s also no secret that The Advocates’ Society knows how to organize a good gathering. From our annual members-only End of Term Dinners and Fall Conventions, to our Festive Receptions and New Members’ Breakfasts, to our Young Advocates’ Wine & Cheese with the Bench and Pub Nights, to our Gala Tribute Dinners and Medal Presentations, our events are an enjoyable way to expand your circle of friends and contacts.
Knowing that you are part of an association that sets the bar high for its members and for the legal profession?
The members of The Advocates' Society are among the best of counsel -- the men and women who are making a contribution to the advocacy bar in Ontario and beyond. We practise as advocates in courts, administrative tribunals, government bodies, arbitrations, and other forums for dispute resolution; we are members of large and small legal firms; we are sole practitioners and we work in government and in industry. Included amongst our members are those who have been appointed to the bench.
The Advocates' Society was established in 1963 to ensure the presence of a courageous and independent bar and the maintenance of the role of the advocate in the administration of justice.
Join us and realize your own professional potential. Our strength is your strength.
Our Mission: Promoting Excellence in Advocacy
The Society's mission statement reflects five principal objectives that
define our role and drive our activities.
1. Be the voice of advocates in Ontario
2. Promote ethical and professional practice standards for advocates
3. Expand our leadership role in teaching the skills of advocacy
4. Protect the independence of the bar and the judiciary
5. Foster collegiality amongst members
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