Bar admission Ceremony 2015 - Nova Scotia Barristers` Society

Bar Admission
Ceremony 2015
Kenneth C. Rowe Heritage Hall, Pier 21
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Friday, June 5, 2015
10:00 am
Bar Admission
Ceremony 2015
CALL TO THE BAR
Friday, June 5, 2015
Presiding Justice
The Honourable Justice Kevin Coady
Presenting Officers
R. Daren Baxter QC
Alonzo Wright
Reception to follow in the
Chrysler Canada Welcome Pavilion
Call to the Bar
Admission List for Friday, June 5, 2015
Gregory Affleck
J. Tyler MacLennan
Angelina Amaral
Andrea MacNevin
Craig Arsenault
Anna Manley
Emma Baasch
Dante Manna
Rilla Banks
Bryson McDonald
Sarah Belong
Elizabeth McIsaac
Jaan Boban
M. Christena McIsaac
Glen Boyd
Jeffrey Mitchell
Daniel Boyle
Andrew Nicol
Godfred Chongatera
Michael Oland
Colin Coady
Kristin Pike
Emilie Coyle
Scott Pike
A. Victoria Crosbie
Tyler Pulley
Travis Durdle
Caitlin S. Regan-Cottreau
Gerald Francis
Laura Rhodes
Liam Gillis
Zoë Roberts
Lara Green
Kate Ross
Kyle Hartlen
William Russell
Duncan Harvie
Lesley Sawers
Kelsey Jones
Paul Sheppard
Peter Lamey
Tia Silver Surette
Ryan Lebans
Jaimie Tax
René LeBlanc
Trevor Wadden
Vanessa LeBlanc
Alexandra Walker
Matthew MacGillivray
Tara Wilcox
Daniel MacKenzie
Noelle Yhard
WELCOME
From Tilly Pillay QC
President, Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society
W
ell, you made it! Well done! This is a significant milestone in your life and I
am sure you will remember this day for years to come. Please take the time to
celebrate your success with family and friends, who are very proud of all that you have
accomplished. You have worked hard and long to get here.
You are entering a profession of long-standing history and importance. Your education
and training place you in a unique position to help people solve their legal problems so
that they can get on with their lives. The value of this cannot be overstated. Likewise,
you will be sought out by your community to be volunteers, leaders and champions.
Lend your skills and time to your community and to your profession – I have no doubt
that the richness of these experiences will be rewarding.
Look around the room. You may not know it yet, but some of your classmates will be
lifelong friends. You will reach out to each other for support and encouragement, no
matter where your career path takes you. I hope you will share many more celebrations
together in the future, as I continue to do now with my own law school friends.
On behalf of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, I extend hearty congratulations and a
warm welcome to you as you join your colleagues at the Bar. I wish you every success in
your career.
WELCOME
From the Honourable Chief Justice Michael MacDonald
Chief Justice of Nova Scotia
“People ... consistently described the justice system as not to be trusted, only for
people with money, arbitrary, difficult to navigate, and inaccessible to ordinary
people.”
- from Equal Justice – Balancing the Scales, the Canadian Bar Association’s report on access to
justice.
“Nearly 12 million Canadians will experience at least 1 legal problem in a given 3
year period. Few will have the resources to solve them.”
- from Access to Civil and Family Justice – A Roadmap For Change - a report by the Action
Committee on Access to Justice in Civil and Family Matters, headed by Justice Thomas A. Cromwell.
T
he sentiment expressed by those two quotes is the impetus behind the creation
of the Access To Justice Co-ordinating Committee here in Nova Scotia. The
Committee is a collaborative approach to reforming the justice system, which
involves the Judiciary, the Government, the Bar, the Law School, and the public.
You’ll be hearing more about this Committee and its work in the months to come.
In that second report, Justice Cromwell also provides six guiding principles to consider
as we work towards reform. Number one on the list is “Put the public first.”
“Too often, we focus inward on how the system operates from the point of view
of those who work in it,” says Justice Cromwell. “Those of us working within the
system need to remember that it exists to serve the public. That must be the focus of
all reform efforts.”
Justice Cromwell’s call to action should not be a revelation to you but, rather, a
reminder. After all, that is your new job description: “Helping people.” Think about
it. It is the very essence of the legal profession, its raison d’etre. It is a noble calling you
should be proud of, one you should fearlessly defend.
WELCOME
For my generation, perhaps the most profound change has been the advent of the
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. For you, it should be Justice Cromwell’s call
to action. “Major change is needed.”
As you transition from learning about the law to practising law, your generation of
lawyers will be called upon to help solve what Justice Cromwell calls “ ... a serious
access to justice problem.” I have no doubt you will help; probably in ways neither
you nor I have even thought of yet. You are indeed well poised to initiate positive
change.
In doing so, you will also have an invigorating effect on the legal profession itself. More
importantly, though, you will be helping people who, because of their circumstances,
find themselves trying to navigate through, what is for them, an unfamiliar and scary
legal landscape.
I urge you to keep these thoughts in mind as you begin your career.
Please accept my sincere congratulations and those of my colleagues in the Nova
Scotia Judiciary on your admission to the Nova Scotia Bar.
See you in Court!
WELCOME
From the Honourable Joseph P. Kennedy
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia
O
n behalf of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, I welcome the new barristers of
this Court.
Our judges anticipate the fresh talent that you will bring into the courtrooms of this
province.
Whatever your area of practice, please regularly reflect upon your good luck to be a
Canadian lawyer and use that opportunity to accomplish good things.
We congratulate you on your accomplishment and look forward to watching your
work.
Order of Proceedings
Presiding Justice enters, everyone rises and the Court is formally opened.
Presenting Officers introduce and move for the admission of each
individual candidate.
When applicants have been presented, all Oaths administered and all
Orders granted, the Presiding Justice will deliver a short address.
The Court will be formally closed.
Signing The Roll
Following the ceremony, each candidate for admission to the Barristers’
Society is required to sign the Roll of Lawyers. Admissions staff will direct
you to the appropriate area.
PHOTOGRAPHS
Please note that cameras and video cameras may be used discreetly in the
courtroom during the ceremonies.
DECLARation on Admission
I, ________________________________________________,
swear/affirm that as a lawyer, I shall, to the best of my knowledge
and ability, conduct all matters and proceedings faithfully,
honestly and with integrity. I shall support the Rule of Law and
uphold and seek to improve the administration of justice. I shall
abide by the ethical standards and rules governing the practice of
law in Nova Scotia.
Oath of Allegiance: (optional)
I, _______________________________________________,
swear /affirm that as a lawyer I shall bear true allegiance to Her
Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, her Heirs and Successors
according to Law.
BIOGRAPHIES – 2015 ADMITTEES
Gregory John Affleck is the son of Betty and Sheldon Affleck of Coldbrook.
Greg received his Bachelor of Arts from Dalhousie University, Master of Arts from
Queen’s University and law degree from Dalhousie University’s Schulich School of
Law in May 2014. He articled with Paul L. Walter QC of Waterbury Newton Law
Firm in Kentville and is joining the firm as an associate.
ANGELINA MANUELA AMARAL is the daughter of Miguel and Adelia Amaral of
Halifax. Angelina received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Cape Breton,
Master of Education from Mount Saint Vincent University and law degree from the
Schulich School of Law in 2014. She articled with Heather McNeill QC through
the Ku’TawTinu: Shared Articling Initiative. Through this initiative, Angelina has
completed articling rotations at the Dalhousie Legal Aid Clinic, Blois Nickerson &
Bryson LLP, Nova Scotia Legal Aid and the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq.
CRAIG LEO VINCENT ARSENAULT is the son of Derek and Brenda Arsenault
of Halifax, the brother of Kory and Christina Arsenault, and spouse to Amanda
Arsenault. Craig received his Bachelor of Recreation and Sport Studies from the
University of New Brunswick, Master of Arts in sport management from Brock
University and law degree from the Schulich School of Law in 2014. He articled
with Jamie MacNeil of BOYNECLARKE LLP and is joining Landry McGillivray in
Dartmouth as an associate.
EMMA KATHARINE BAASCH is the offspring of Birgit Baasch of Montreal.
Emma received their Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto, Master of Arts
at Dalhousie University, and law degree from the Schulich School of Law in 2014.
They articled with the Department of Justice Canada in Halifax.
Rilla Banks is the daughter of Catherine Banks and Peter Rogers of Halifax. Rilla
received her Bachelor of Music degree from Dalhousie University and law degree from
McGill University in 2014. She articled with James MacNeil of BOYNECLARKE
LLP in Halifax and is joining the firm as an associate.
BIOGRAPHIES – 2015 ADMITTEES
Sarah Julianne Belong is the daughter of Wendy and Carl Belong of
Lockeport, and is engaged to Jamie Stuart. She received her Bachelor of Science
degree with honours from Dalhousie University, and her law degree from the Schulich
School of Law. Sarah articled with Burchells LLP in Halifax, and will be staying on as
an associate lawyer there.
JAAN MARIA BOBAN is the daughter of Tom and Mary Boban. Jaan received her
Bachelor of Business Administration and Laws from Symbiosis Law School, India, and
her Master of Laws from the University of Toronto in 2012. She articled with McInnes
Cooper in Halifax and will soon be moving to Toronto to pursue her legal career.
Glen Arthur Boyd is the son of Arthur and Joan Boyd of St. Clements,
Ontario, spouse to Heather Potter and father to Natalie, Madeline and Nathaniel
Boyd. He received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Waterloo and law
degree from the University of Manitoba in 1993. Since graduating, Glen has practised
criminal law in the Northwest Territories and Ontario. For the past eight years, he has
been employed as Crown Counsel with the Public Prosecution Service of Canada and
will be continuing in that capacity here in Halifax.
Daniel Boyle is the son of Stephen John Boyle and Rosemary Bernadette Boyle
of Halifax. Daniel is married to Sarah Rebecca Chamberlain-Boyle and is father
to Niamh Allison Boyle. He received his Bachelor of Arts in political science from
Dalhousie University before obtaining his Master of Business Administration and
Juris Doctor degrees from the University of New Brunswick in 2014. Daniel articled
with Patterson Law in Truro and will be continuing as an associate with the firm’s
litigation group.
GODFRED TIGAWUVE CHONGATERA is the son of Chongatera and Bazayira
Chongatera of Navrongo, Ghana. Godfred received his Bachelor of Arts in sociology and
Bachelor of Laws from the University of Ghana, Master of Arts from Western University,
Master of Laws from the Schulich School of Law, and Certificate of Qualification from
the National Committee on Accreditation of the Federation of Law Societies of Canada.
He articled with Stewart McKelvey in Halifax, with Level Chan as his Principal. Godfred
intends to pursue professional opportunities within the Halifax region.
BIOGRAPHIES – 2015 ADMITTEES
Colin James Coady is the son of Ms. Libby MacLennan and Mr. Kevin Coady,
the nephew of Ms. Shauna MacLennan and loving partner to Ms. Alexandria Barnes
– all of Halifax. He received his international politics degree from St. Francis Xavier
University and his Juris Doctor, with honours, from Bond University in Australia.
Colin articled with Nova Scotia Legal Aid in Halifax under Ms. Nicole Campbell and
will continue his employment with Nova Scotia Legal Aid.
EMILIE ROSEANNE COYLE is the daughter of Mary and David Coyle of
Antigonish, spouse to Adam Brown and mother to Maia and Niko Brown. Emilie
received her Bachelor of Arts from York University, Master in Education from Mount
Saint Vincent University and law degree from the Schulich School of Law in 2014.
She articled with the Hon. Justice C. Louann Chiasson and M. Jean Beeler QC of
Weldon McInnis in Dartmouth and is joining the firm as an associate.
Ann Victoria Crosbie is the daughter of Michael and Lynn Crosbie of St.
John’s. Victoria received her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in politics from Queen’s
University in 2009, and her Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of Law in 2014.
She articled with McInnes Cooper in Halifax and is joining the firm as an associate
in its litigation group.
TRAVIS ROBERT DURDLE is the son of Robert Durdle and Arlene Fraser of
New Waterford, and spouse to Kyla Romard. Travis received his Bachelor of Business
Administration degree from Cape Breton University and law degree from the Schulich
School of Law in 2014. He articled with Burchell MacDougall in Truro and is joining
the firm as an associate.
Gerald Ernest Francis is the son of Judy and Ervin Francis of Harbour Le
Cou, and is married to Aisha Francis. He received his law degree from the Schulich
School of Law in 2014. Gerald articled with Blair Mitchell of Mitchell & Ferguson
Associates in Halifax and intends to practise law in Alberta.
BIOGRAPHIES – 2015 ADMITTEES
Liam Garrett Profit Gillis is the son of Ron Gillis and Sheila Profit of
Sydney. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree with an honours in economics from
Saint Francis Xavier University, and his law degree from the Schulich School of Law in
2004. Liam articled with Joey Palov of Cox & Palmer in Halifax and will be returning
home to Sydney as an associate with Sampson McDougall.
Lara Alexa Green is the daughter of David Green and Cheryl Alexander of
Victoria, B.C., and is married to Robert Niven. Lara received her Bachelor of Science
degree from Dalhousie University and law degree from the Schulich School of Law in
2014. She articled with Lori Hill of Elizabeth Wozniak Inc. Canadian Immigration
Lawyers in Halifax and is joining the firm as an associate. KYLE SPENCER HARTLEN is the son of Randall and Gayle Hartlen of Fall River.
He received his Honors Business Administration (HBA) degree from the Richard Ivey
School of Business and his Juris Doctor from the Faculty of Law at the University
of Western Ontario, both in 2014 as part of a combined program. Kyle articled
with Stewart McKelvey in Halifax and will be joining the firm as an associate in its
corporate group, following completion of his Master of Business Administration at
the Richard Ivey School of Business.
DUNCAN JOHN HARVIE is the son of John Harvie and Celia Munro, spouse
to Heather Topshee and father of Sylvie Harvie. Duncan received his Bachelor of
Science from Mount Allison University, Bachelor of Education from Mount Saint
Vincent University and law degree from the Schulich School of Law in 2014. He
articled with Michelle Awad QC of McInnes Cooper in Halifax and is joining the
firm as an associate.
Kelsey Audrey Theresa Jones is the daughter of Dwight Jones and the late
Lorrie Melanson-Jones of Amherst. Kelsey received her Bachelor of Arts degree from
Dalhousie University in 2008, and her Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of Law
in 2014. She articled with Darlene Willcott at the Nova Scotia Department of Justice
in Halifax. Kelsey would like to thank her family and friends for their support and
encouragement throughout her education.
BIOGRAPHIES – 2015 ADMITTEES
Peter Joseph Lamey is the son of Samuel R. Lamey QC and Mary MacInnis
of Chester. Peter graduated from St. Francis Xavier University with a Bachelor of
Arts before completing a Bachelor of Laws at the University of New Brunswick. He
articled with Peter Rumscheidt at the Halifax office of Cox & Palmer and will be
associated with the firm, with a focus on tax and corporate law.
RYAN PETER WILLIAM LEBANS is the son of Peter and Krista Lebans of Moncton.
Ryan received his Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Mount Allison University, Master
of Arts from the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs at the University
of Ottawa, and Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of Law. He articled with Cox
& Palmer of Halifax and is joining the firm as an associate.
RENÉ PIERRE LEBLANC is the son of Betty Dugas and the late Gilles Le Blanc
of Baie Sainte-Marie. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration from
Université Sainte Anne and law degree from Université de Moncton. René articled
with Actus Law Droit in Moncton and was admitted to the New Brunswick Bar in
2013. He continued to work for the same firm for a year before opening his own
practice. He currently has his own solo practice.
VANESSA DAWN LEBLANC is the daughter of Susan and Darren Steeves of
Riverview, New Brunswick. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration
in accounting from St. Francis Xavier University, Master of Public Administration
from Dalhousie University, and Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of Law.
Vanessa articled with Wickwire Holm in Halifax and will continue with the firm as
an associate.
Bryson Francis McDonald is the son of Francis and Donna McDonald
of Lower Sackville. He received his Bachelor of Science from Concordia University
and law degree from Western Michigan University Law School in Lansing, Michigan.
Bryson articled with BOYNECLARKE LLP in Dartmouth and intends to pursue
a career as a Crown prosecutor with the Public Prosecution Service, where he was
seconded for the last month of his articles. BIOGRAPHIES – 2015 ADMITTEES
MATTHEW JOSEPH MACGILLIVRAY is the son of Raymond and Therese
(Carnell) MacGillivray of Antigonish. Matthew received his Bachelor of Science
from St. Francis Xavier University and law degree from Université de Moncton. He
articled with Nova Scotia Legal Aid in Antigonish under the supervision of Gerald A.
MacDonald QC, Cindy L. Murray and James C. MacIntosh.
Daniel JAMES MacKenzie is the son of Leo and Carolyn MacKenzie of
Dartmouth. Daniel received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Saint Mary’s University
in 2010 and law degree from the University of New Brunswick in 2014. He articled
with Stewart McKelvey in Halifax and is joining the firm as an associate. John Tyler MacLennan is the son of Donald MacLennan and Darlene Neville
of Sydney. Tyler received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Cape Breton University
and law degree from the Schulich School of Law in 2014. He articled with Robert
Sampson QC of Sampson McDougall in Sydney and is joining the firm as an associate.
Andrea Sarah MacNevin is the daughter of Greg and Peggy MacNevin of
Souris, P.E.I. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Dalhousie University in
2001, Bachelor of Justice degree from Royal Roads University in 2011, and law degree
from the University of New Brunswick in 2014. Andrea articled with the Department
of Justice Canada, in the Atlantic Regional Office in Halifax. She will be going on to
work as a first-year associate with D.W. Clark Services P.C. Incorporated in Fredericton.
Anna Lynn Manley is from small-town Ontario, but has set down roots in
Cape Breton with her husband, Steve Manley. She received both a BA and an MA in
English literature from McMaster University. Anna completed her law degree at the
University of New Brunswick in 2014 and articled with Gary Corsano of Sampson
McDougall in Sydney; she will be joining the firm as an associate.
Dante Vincenzo Manna is the son of Ruth Manna of Longmeadow,
Massachusetts, and is married to Hugh Avery. Dante received his Bachelor of Arts
degree from Wesleyan University, Ph.D. from Tulane University, and law degree from
the Schulich School of Law. He articled with Stewart McKelvey in Halifax and will
continue with the firm as an associate.
BIOGRAPHIES – 2015 ADMITTEES
Elizabeth Marie McIsaac is the daughter of Ronald McIsaac and Deborah
Gillis QC of Bedford, and is married to Ian Macdonald. Elizabeth received her
Bachelor of Science and Master of Public Administration degrees from Dalhousie
University, and her Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of Law. She articled with
McInnes Cooper in Halifax and is joining the firm as an associate in its energy and
natural resources group.
Margaret Christena McIsaac is the daughter of Ronald McIsaac and
Deborah Gillis QC of Bedford, and is married to Brad Olsen. Christena received
her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from St. Francis Xavier University,
Chartered Accountant designation from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nova
Scotia, and Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of Law in 2014. She articled with
Stewart McKelvey in Halifax and is joining the firm as an associate in its business group.
JEFFREY THOMAS MITCHELL is the son of Dr. Michael and Dr. Victoria
Mitchell of Halifax. He received his Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Saint Mary’s
University in 2007 and law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School of York University
in 2014. Jeff commenced his articles with McInnes Cooper and transferred his articles
to Carter Ford LLP in Halifax, where he will begin his legal practice.
ANDREW PETER NICOL is the son of Peter and Beverly Nicol of Moncton and
spouse to Emily Nicol. He received his Bachelor of Arts from Mount Allison University
and law degree from the Schulich School of Law in 2014. Andrew articled with James
MacNeil of BOYNECLARKE LLP in Dartmouth and is joining the firm as an associate.
Michael James Shuter Oland is the son of Cathy and Jamie Oland. He
received his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Acadia University and
law degree from Dalhousie’s Schulich School of Law. Michael articled with Stewart
McKelvey in Halifax and will be pursuing his legal career in Vancouver. KRISTIN JANICE PIKE is the daughter of Marilyn Girouard and Lorne Pike of
Halifax. Kristin received her Bachelor of Commerce from Saint Mary’s University and
law degree from the Schulich School of Law in 2014. She articled with Richard Melanson
of Blois Nickerson & Bryson LLP in Halifax and is joining the firm as an associate.
BIOGRAPHIES – 2015 ADMITTEES
SCOTT THOMAS PIKE is the son of Evalina Pike and Thomas Pike of Ancaster,
and is married to Alannah Delahunty-Pike. Scott received his Bachelor of Business
Administration from Acadia University, Bachelor of Laws from the University of
Dundee in Scotland and Juris Doctor from the University of Toronto Faculty Of Law.
He articled with Stewart McKelvey in Halifax and is joining the firm as an associate
in its business group.
TYLER CREIGHTON PULLEY is the son of Glen Pulley of Margaretsville and
Vicki and Tim Oikle of Digby, and is married to Jessica Pulley. He received his
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree from Saint Mary’s University, Master of Arts
degree from Dalhousie University, and law degree from the Schulich School of Law.
Tyler articled with Pickup MacDowell in Port Hawkesbury and will continue with
the firm as an associate.
Caitlin Smith Regan-Cottreau is the daughter of the Hon. Kelly Regan
and the Hon. Geoff Regan, and is married to Jonathan Cottreau. Caitlin received her
Bachelor of Arts in political science from Acadia University in 2010, and Bachelor of
Arts (Honours) in 2011. She received her Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of
Law in 2014. Caitlin articled with Cox & Palmer in Halifax, and will be joining the
firm as an associate.
LAURA JEAN RHODES is the daughter of Mary and Keith MacKay of Halifax,
and is married to Mitchell Rhodes. Laura received her Bachelor of Arts degree from
McGill University, master’s degree from Blekinge Institute in Sweden, and law degree
from McGill University in 2014. She articled with Stewart McKelvey in Halifax and
is joining the firm as an associate.
Zoë Catherine Roberts is the daughter of Lauren Dale and Peter Roberts,
and partner to André Amiro. Zoë received her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in political
science and international development studies from Dalhousie University in 2009,
and her Juris Doctor from the University of Victoria in 2014. She articled with
Katherine Carrigan at the Nova Scotia Department of Justice in Halifax.
BIOGRAPHIES – 2015 ADMITTEES
KATE ELIZABETH ROSS is the daughter of Stephen and Mary Beth Ross of
Halifax, and is married to Ron Dauphinee of Halifax. Kate received her Bachelor
of Arts degree from Mount Allison University, education degree from the University
of Maine, and Juris Doctor from the University of Ottawa. She articled with David
Iannetti of Ryan Iannetti Law Office in North Sydney, and will be associated with
Farrow Law in Upper Tantallon.
WILLIAM DAVID RUSSELL is the son of Jean-Marc Russell and Caryl Green
of Chelsea, Quebec. William received his Bachelor of Arts from Mount Allison
University, Master of Marine Management from Dalhousie University, and Juris
Doctor from the University of New Brunswick. He articled with Wickwire Holm in
Halifax and will be joining the firm as an associate.
LESLEY MICHELE WATSON SAWERS is the daughter of Laura Watson and David
Sawers, and sister to Heather Clarke. She received her Bachelor of Science in honours
biology from Dalhousie University and law degree from the Schulich School of Law.
Lesley was a first- and second-year summer student, and an articled clerk with Patterson
Law. She will now be joining Patterson Law as a litigation associate in its Halifax office.
Paul Ervin Sheppard is the son of Brennan and Linda Sheppard, and the
husband of Julie Sheppard. Paul received his Bachelor of Arts from Saint Mary’s
University and law degree from the University of Leeds in West Yorkshire, England,
in 2012. He articled with Rick Woodburn at the Nova Scotia Public Prosecution
Service, and also spent time with Pink Larkin and HRM Legal Services.
Tia Silver Surette is the daughter of Gordon and Terry Silver of Annapolis
Royal, spouse to Alexi Surette and mother to Hailey Silver. She received her Bachelor
of Science degree from Acadia University, Master of Science degree from Dalhousie
University and law degree from the Schulich School of Law in 2014. Tia articled with
Burchell MacDougall Lawyers in Truro and is joining the firm’s Wolfville office as an
associate.
BIOGRAPHIES – 2015 ADMITTEES
JAIMIE LEIGH TAX is the daughter of the Hon. Judge Theodore K. Tax and Cara
L. Tax of Halifax. Jaimie received her Bachelor of Commerce degree from Dalhousie
University in 2008 and law degree from McGill University in 2014. She articled
with Cox & Palmer in Halifax and will be associated with Merrick Jamieson Sterns
Washington & Mahody.
TREVOR ALAN JOHN WADDEN is the son of Alan and Mary Wadden of
Dartmouth. Trevor received his Bachelor of Arts from Dalhousie University and
law degree from the University of New Brunswick in 2014. He articled with Jamie
MacGillivray of MacGillivray Injury and Insurance Law in Halifax and is joining the
firm as an associate.
Catherine Jean Alexandra Walker is the proud daughter of David
Walker and Catherine Walker QC of Halifax. Alexandra received her Bachelor
of Science degree from the University of King’s College and law degree from the
inaugural class of Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, B.C. She articled with
Walker Law Inc. and intends to pursue a legal career in mental health, working to
protect the rights of those most vulnerable.
TARA LYNN WILCOX is the daughter of David and Marilyn Wilcox of Wellington.
She received her Bachelor of Arts from Saint Mary’s University, Bachelor of Education
from the University of Maine, Fort Kent, and law degree from the Schulich School
of Law in 2014. Tara articled with Cox & Palmer in Halifax, and will be joining the
firm as an associate this fall.
Jamie Noelle Yhard is the daughter of Barry and Darlene Yhard of
Dartmouth. Noelle received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Saint Mary’s
University and law degree from the Schulich School of Law. She articled with Bailey
& Associates in Dartmouth and will be associated with that firm in the practice of
law.
Admittees called since July 2014
OCTOBER 2014
Michael Devin Brine is the son of Marie Brine of Musquodoboit Harbour.
Michael received his business degree from the University of New Brunswick, and
his law degree from the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University. He articled
with Denise Zareski of Zareski Law Inc. in Musquodoboit Harbour, and intends to
practise at the firm.
Nina Elizabeth Johnsen is the daughter of Edwin and Kathleen Johnsen of
Voorhees, New Jersey. Nina received her Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Drew
University in 2004, and her Juris Doctor from the University of New Brunswick in
2013. She articled with Stewart & Turner in Berwick. Nina plans to pursue a career
in the area of criminal defence.
David McCluskey is the son of Lyn and John McCluskey of Sidney, British
Columbia, and the partner of Ashley Aucoin. David received his Bachelor of Arts
degree from the University of Calgary, and his law degree from the University of
Leeds. He articled with the Workers’ Advisers Program in Halifax and will continue
to be associated with the Program in the practice of law.
Melinda Joy Lukwinski McCrindle is the daughter of Barbara
Lukwinski and William McCrindle. Melinda received her Bachelor of Arts degree in
history and German from Dalhousie University and her law degree from the Schulich
School of Law. She articled with both Cox & Palmer and the Halifax Regional Water
Commission, and will be associated with the Halifax Regional Water Commission.
Jonathan Christopher Patterson is the son of Daniel and Beverley
Patterson of Sydney River, and is married to Heather Patterson. Jon received
his Bachelor of Arts from Cape Breton University and his Juris Doctor from the
University of New Brunswick.
Admittees called since July 2014
JANUARY 2015
Niall Patrick Burke of Dunlavin, Wicklow, Ireland, is the son of Liam and
Margaret Burke. He received his LL.B. from the University of the West of England
Bristol and completed his litigation training in Dublin at the Honorable Society of
King’s Inns. He was called to the Irish Bar in 2012 and began articling at Cassidy
Nearing Berryman and Knox Law in 2013. He will continue with Cassidy Nearing
Berryman as an associate lawyer and will also be assisting Mark Knox QC in the areas
of criminal law and civil litigation.
Iain David Hutten Burton is the son of David and Anne Burton of
Wolfville. Iain received his Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of
British Columbia, and his law degree from the Schulich School of Law. He articled
with Waterbury Newton in Kentville and will continue on at that firm as an associate.
Devon Erika Cassidy is the daughter of Patrick Ingram Cassidy QC and
Sarah Ann Cassidy of Halifax. Devon received her Bachelor of Science from Mount
Allison University, her LL.B. from the University of the West of England Bristol
and her LL.M. from Trinity University in Dublin, Ireland. Devon articled at Cassidy
Nearing Berryman and Knox Law. She will continue to practise as an associate lawyer
at Cassidy Nearing Berryman while assisting Mark Knox QC in the area of family law.
Jennifer Lauryn Huygen is the daughter of Bryan and Susan Huygen
of Edmonton. Jennifer received her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree from the
University of Alberta in 2010 and her law degree from the Schulich School of Law in
2013. Jennifer articled with the Alberta Court of Appeal and with Burchells LLP in
Halifax. She will continue with the firm as an associate.
Sinead Maire Russell is a native of Templemore, Ireland. She lives with her
partner, Dr. Karen Cox, and their four children – Sinead’s sons Jordan and Rhys, and
Karen’s daughters Katie and Hannah. Sinead received her Bachelor of Arts degree in
1992 and her law degree in 1995 from the National University of Ireland, Galway.
She articled with Power Dempsey Leefe & Reddy and will be associated with that firm
in the practice of law.
Admittees called since July 2014
APRIL 2015
Shanisha Sharicka Grant is the daughter of Wade Grant and the late Geraldine
Grant of North Preston. Shanisha received her Bachelor of Science in psychology and
biology from Mount Saint Vincent University and her Juris Doctor from the Schulich
School of Law. She completed her articles with both the Lawyers’ Insurance Association
of Nova Scotia and Merrick Jamieson Sterns Washington & Mahody, and would like to
thank her parents for their continued support in reaching her goals.
Lindsay Bridget O’Reilly is the daughter of Dorothy and Daniel O’Reilly of
Halifax. She is married to Mitchell Crossman and is proud mother to their daughter,
Sophie. Lindsay received her Bachelor of Journalism (Honours) degree from the University
of King’s College, her Bachelor of Science in biology from Dalhousie University and her
law degree from the Schulich School of Law. She articled with Waterbury Newton Law
Firm in Kentville and will be returning to Halifax to practise law.
Samantha O. Ratnam is the daughter of Sam & Shobhitha Ratnam of St.
John’s, and sister to Sid Ratnam. Samantha received her Bachelor of Arts from
Memorial University and her law degree from the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie
University. She began her articles with Farrow Law and completed her articles with
Kevin MacDonald of Crowe Dillon Robinson.
Gregory William Sampson is the son of Bill and Susan Sampson of Martin’s
River. Gregory received his Bachelor of Arts in political science from Dalhousie
University and his LL.B. from the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom. He
articled with Garth Gordon of Taylor MacLellan Cochrane Lawyers and Andrew
Waterbury of Anderson Sinclair in Kentville. Born and raised in the Annapolis Valley,
Greg is pleased to be continuing as an associate with Anderson Sinclair.
Benjamin Levi Shearer is the son of Russell and Donna Shearer of Truro, and
is married to Katinda Mutinda-Shearer. Benjamin received his Bachelor of Arts degree
from St. Thomas University and his Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of Law.
He articled with Blois, Nickerson & Bryson and is blessed with and thankful for the
great opportunity in his future legal career.
Admittees called since July 2014
Sean Andrew Smith is the son of John Smith and Karen White-Smith of
Halifax. Sean received his bachelor’s degree in English and French from the University
of King’s College and his law degree from the University of New Brunswick. He
articled with, and will be associated with, Morris Bureau Barristers & Solicitors.
Katelyn Elizabeth Christel Viner is the daughter of Cindy and Jeff
Viner of Sheffield Mills. Katelyn received her Bachelor of Arts from Mount Allison
University and her Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of Law. She articled with
Shelley Hounsell-Gray of Nova Scotia Legal Aid in Dartmouth, and plans to continue
practising in the area of family law.
Member benefits
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New discounts for new lawyers (for the first three years following their call to the bar): for a
60 per cent reduction in the membership fee, new lawyers can enjoy all the benefits of CBA
membership.
Enhanced membership value through Portfolio and Portfolio Plus options.
31 Practice Area Sections provide education, advocacy and networking opportunities.
Ongoing professional development and continuing legal education offered by your Nova
Scotia Branch:
- Preferential Pricing (50% discount) on all conferences (two-day Mid-Winter Conference,
quarterly one-day conferences and 90-minute webinars).
- Check out the Professional Development website at www.cba.org/pd
Access to professional development/CLE from across Canada at discounted rates.
Quarterly newsletter, Nova Voce, to keep you up to date on what’s happening locally at the
CBA–NS branch.
The award-winning National Magazine.
Volunteer opportunities — interesting committee work and public events like Law Week.
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for Executor Clients)
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