WHAT WAS YOUR PATH INTO LAW AND ONTO THE BENCH?

My path into law and onto the bench was not linear if that gives someone hope. I grew up on a farm in a small community with a graduating class of 12 people. Needless to say, there were no lawyers or other professionals in my town to look up to as role models. As a teenager, I dreamed of becoming a hockey player or a sport announcer. Sadly, in the 70's that was not a feasible nor an encouraged option for young women. These days, thankfully, young women are supported in the pursuit of those professional dreams.

In 1975 in Saskatchewan, it was possible to obtain a teaching certificate or become a Registered Nurse through two-year programs. When I graduated high school, the only pathway into higher education suggested to young woman was teaching, nursing, or secretarial work. Although these were and continue to be noble professions, it was not where my future lay. I had decided that being a dentist was my plan, with a backup plan of law. I was a steadfast and strong­ willed young woman who had a keen tendency for questioning the way things were, and those who knew me had suggested pursuing a legal career.

I attended the University of Saskatchewan Arts and Science College and although I absolutely loved my life there and off the farm, naturally life threw a curve ball. I fell in love and married, which led to me putting my academic career on hold and moving to a smaller city. I was dental assistant for 11 years. During that time, I became a mother to two wonderful children. I continued to take University classes in the evenings but my dream of becoming a lawyer took a backseat.

In the late 80's I was able to write the LSAT and commence law school at the University of Saskatchewan in 1989. Since starting my legal journey, I have never looked back. I am proof that life is often filled with roadblocks, hills, and roundabouts. I was lucky to article and work for five years at the same law firm in Saskatoon. There, I gained valuable experience as a litigator, as well as in general practice.

Due to my experience leading a large-class action at that firm, the Director of the Federal Department of Justice asked if I would assist with the tainted blood scandal class action. I ended up staying with the Federal Justice Civil Litigation Unit for approximately ten years, with secondments to Ottawa and Detroit. An opportunity arose to work for the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, so I became a federal prosecutor. During my time at the PPSC, I had the amazing experience of working in Nunavut, as well as being the agent supervisor for Saskatchewan.

I never imagined that I would become a judge, until a supervisor recommended I apply. Fortuitously, I was appointed to the Federal Court of Canada 2013. During my time at Federal Justice, I had loved practicing in the Federal Court of Canada – I was intimately familiar with the rules and formality, and it was a happy place for me. In 2015, I was also appointed to the Court Martial Appeal Court, which enables me to use the experiences I gained as a prosecutor.

As you can see, my path to becoming a judge has not been a straight-line but I followed where the road took me. As I am sure many lawyers do, I experienced imposter syndrome and still do on occasion – even after ten years on the bench. It is a pleasure to work alongside so many brilliant legal minds who have a depth of experience, specialized knowledge, and passion for the law.

WHAT EXPERIENCE IN YOUR LEGAL CAREER BEST PREPARED YOU FOR WORK ON THE BENCH?

It is often those experiences that, at the time, may seem unrelated that end up being the most useful.

My life experiences have been the greatest asset for my work on the bench. As a dental assistant, I gained plenty of experience dealing with people during times of stress, which has proved invaluable as a judge. My life experiences have also emphasized the importance of access to justice and ensuring self-represented litigants have their day in Court. Playing team sports has encouraged my collaboration on the Court. Coming from a rural family farm, a strong work ethic was instilled in me from a young age.

My previous legal experiences have also been beneficial. My work in public law has assisted me greatly, as the Federal Court deals with a number of administrative law matters. My time in private practice involving commercial and general complex litigation practice gave me a solid foundation in evidence. My varied roles before becoming a judge have also given me an ability to learn new areas of the law with ease. In particular, being a generalist has been a huge benefit, which allows me to move around the Federal Court's broad jurisdiction.

Although all these life experiences have prepared me excellently for my role as a judge, I do mourn not being bilingual or having civil law training­ although I continue to take French lessons.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR COUNSEL WHO APPEAR BEFORE YOU?

Do not ever compromise your career for a client or colleague. Ethics are very important, and you are an officer of the Court, so never put yourself in a situation where you can comprise your ethics. There are always senior lawyers both at and not at your firm that you can talk to when you have a problem.

Prepare, prepare, prepare. Even though I may not have always been the most naturally talented person in the room, I was always the most prepared. I was always ready when a judge asked a question. On the other hand, try to find time for family and friends, as well as yourself. It is a tricky balance but if you find that balance, you will be a better lawyer, and a better person.

My advice to young lawyers is that you have to be yourself and find what works for you, and that arrogance and non-civility between counsel does not work for me as a judge. Most of the best lawyers that appear in front of me are humble.

WHAT DO YOU WISH THE PUBLIC KNEW ABOUT THE JUSTICE SYSTEM?

How amazing the Canadian justice system is in comparison to a number of other countries. Of course, there is always room for improvement, but the law is ever evolving, and improvement is continually strived for, both by the judiciary and counsel helping us make decisions. The public should be assured and know how much Canadian judges care and try their best to make the best possible decisions.