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Check out my first opinion piece on my joint campaign with Janet Leiper:
http://lawandstyle.ca/law/opinion-the-inside-story-of-the-first-female-south-asian-bencher/ |
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Election Statement
As a member of the Law Society’s Equity Advisory Group (EAG), I have been inspired and encouraged to run by my colleagues and an extraordinary mentor and friend, Bencher Janet Leiper. I’ve practiced law for 20 years and my deep commitment and respect for the legal profession, ethical practice and public service is evident in my work as a public service lawyer and in my interactions with colleagues and our legal institutions. I would be honoured to represent our profession as we face significant policy challenges ahead. I have participated in EAG for many years, and have direct experience with issues that our profession is facing: Challenges Faced by Racialized Licensees; the Articling Practice Program review; Access to Justice and Equity initiatives; ABS (non-lawyer ownership); and Professional Discipline Regulation and Professional Responsibility. I believe that it is critical for our profession to include informed, progressive and diverse ideas on how to face these complex issues and I am eager to work on these issues in a collaborative, accountable and progressive manner. Throughout my years of practice, which have exposed me to human rights and mental health law, I have seen many challenges faced by our profession – many of which still need the attention and support of the Law Society. These challenges include: equity initiatives to increase inclusion, focusing particularly on racialized and indigenous practitioners; challenges facing lawyers with disabilities and mental health issues; addressing needs unique to our colleagues in rural areas and small towns; the stresses of sole practitioners and those new to our profession, including the need for mentoring; and more accessible ways in which to participate meaningfully in our governing profession. The complex issues and challenges faced by our profession require a thoughtful approach, taking into account the diversity of our profession and our responsibility to the public. It is with these values and commitments that I would be honoured to serve. |
See the Law Times article quoting Isfahan Merali and Janet Leiper:
http://www.lawtimesnews.com/2015bencherelection/news/bencher-elections-promise-an-interesting-race.html |
Isfahan Merali Bencher, Toronto Region