Program Chairs:
Shantona Chaudhury,
Pape Chaudhury LLP
Dominique T. Hussey,
Bennett Jones LLP
Christine Mohr,
Department of Justice
Peter J. Osborne,
Lenczner Slaght
The last two years have brought a host of challenges no one could have predicted, reshaping our litigation practices as we knew them – how we conduct trials, how we mentor young advocates and how we plan for the future. How can we incorporate the lessons from the past two years in order to thrive and innovate in our practices?
The Advocates' Society and the American College of Trial Lawyers invite you to attend the 21st Annual Spring Symposium, the premier annual CPD event for civil litigators featuring the highest calibre speakers, topics and thought pieces.
This practical program features the latest developments, strategies and tools for adapting and succeeding in your evolving litigation practice.
For the very first time, Spring Symposium will be delivered as a hybrid conference with in-person and virtual attendance options available. But no matter how you choose to join us, you will take part in a dynamic and engaging day of learning!
You will:
- Hear the former Deputy Attorney General of the United States, Sally Quillian Yates, discuss the imperative of truth and the role of advocates in defending the rule of law during turbulent periods
- Watch a Fireside Chat with renowned criminal defence lawyer Marie Henein on the evolution of the legal profession – where we’ve been, where we are, and where we should be heading
- Discover the skills, competencies and proficiencies needed to be an effective advocate in today’s environment
- Learn about recent changes to substantive law in a variety of areas including civil, public, employment and family
- Explore the relationship between written and oral advocacy in the argument of an appeal, with a panel of senior appellate counsel and judges
- Hear from both senior and junior counsel on overcoming the challenges of learning to practice law, and teaching the practice of law, remotely
- Hear a frank discussion on mental health and well-being in the profession, featuring Chief Justice George Strathy
- And more!
If you are a civil litigator serious about advocacy, this is one program you do not want to miss!
Hybrid Conference:
Spring Symposium will be offered as a hybrid conference in 2022. When registering, you will be provided with the option to choose in-person or virtual participation. Please note that
in-person registration is limited and will be available on a first come, first served basis. The in-person conference will take place at The Advocates’ Society’s Education Centre located at 250 Yonge Street, Suite 2700 in Toronto. Registrants will be able to switch their registration preference up to
April 18, 2022 at noon, after which a
$75.00 fee will be incurred. For extenuating circumstances, please contact Angela Greenberg, Manager of Professional Development at
angela@advocates.ca.
COVID-19 Protocols:
Proof of Vaccination:
All attendees must be fully vaccinated in order to attend the conference in-person. Attendees will be required to present an enhanced vaccine certificate (with an official QR code) in addition to government-issued identification at the conference check-in.
Individuals who have a valid medical exemption must provide TAS with supporting documentation from a specialist physician at least 5 business days before the conference. Please email a copy of your supporting documentation to Angela Greenberg,
Manager of Professional Development at
angela@advocates.ca.
Masks:
All in-person attendees are encouraged to wear a mask when not eating, drinking or presenting.
All health and safety protocols remain subject to change as public health measures in the Province of Ontario continue to evolve.
Please note that due to ongoing concerns with COVID-19, this program may be delivered entirely online. We will keep you informed as public health regulations continue to evolve.
Registration includes electronic materials, which will be provided prior to the program. In-person registration also includes breakfast and lunch. All attendees will receive access to the live webcast recording for 30 days from the date the link is sent to you.
Please review the system requirements to view a Zoom webinar here.