Young Lawyers Enjoy Evening Event With Chief Justices

On April 20, 125 young lawyers gathered to hear from the Hon. Chief Justice Finch, the Hon. Chief Justice Brenner, and the Hon. Chief Judge Baird-Ellan. John Briner, Section Treasurer, describes the event:

The evening was hosted by the CBABC Young Lawyers-Vancouver Section, and offered a wonderful opportunity to socialize informally with the three justices and other young lawyers over cocktails and dinner. More importantly, the three justices provided important practice tips, hints, and lessons, by way of speeches and a lively Q & A session.

Chief Justice Brenner highlighted the qualities a lawyer must possess, including the importance of collegiality, and the ability to work and communicate with others in the legal community and in front of the bench. Chief Judge Baird-Ellan provided practical tips when appearing before the bench and gave useful accounts of courtroom "transgressions" of both lay litigants and junior lawyers. Chief Justice Finch spoke of a young lawyer who, in one of his first trials, was assisted enormously by a judge who recognized his inexperience. The Chief Justice later revealed that he was the young lawyer.

Co-Chairs Karey Brooks and Angela Walker closed the evening with some important observations: As young lawyers, it is important to interact both with other lawyers and members of the bench. As such, CBA-sponsored events such as these are important forums for young lawyers to hear from the bench and seasoned members of the Bar how to become more effective advocates.

This article was published in the June 2004 issue of BarTalk. © 2004 The Canadian Bar Association. All rights reserved.