8:45am | Welcome Remarks
8:55am | Remarks from the Department of Justice Canada, B.C. Regional Office
9:05am |Keynote Address
The Hon. Chief Justice Ron Skolrood, Supreme Court of British Columbia
9:45am | Current Trends in Aboriginal Law
Learn about recent developments in Aboriginal Law in this fireside chat. John W. Gailus, a member of Haida Nation, shares his insight into the evolving impact of UNDRIP on the duty to consult, and complexities of overlapping claims to shared territory. Drawing on practical experience, this discussion explores how these trends are shaping negotiations, litigation, and government policy.
Edward Burnet, DOJ Canada, BC Regional Office
John W. Gailus, Cascadia Legal LLP
10:45am | Health Break
11:00am | Class Actions as a Tool for Social Reform
A powerful legal mechanism, class actions have the potential to drive institutional change and hold public bodies accountable. However, it can also open the door to judicial overreach and policymaking from the bench. Panelists examine the balance between legal advocacy and democratic governance.
Andrea Gatti, DOJ Canada, BC Regional Office
Emma Irving, Dentons Canada LLP
Naomi Kovak, Camp Fiorante Matthews LLP
12:15pm | Lunch
1:05pm | Remarks from Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch
1:15pm | AI Advancement and Innovation
The continuous evolution of artificial intelligence brings new opportunities—and challenges—to the legal profession. Experts discuss how AI’s recent advancements are being integrated into legal research tools such as Westlaw, LexisNexis and the Department of Justice’s Otto Project, and the risks that may arise.
Ebrahim Adeeb, DOJ Canada, BC Regional Office
Sancho McCann, DOJ Canada, BC Regional Office
1:55pm | Rapid Fire: Top Ten Cases in Government Law
In this fast-paced round-up of 2025, counsel summarize the most significant cases that shaped public law this year. Hear recaps on key decisions and developments in administrative law, constitutional issues, Crown liability and more.
2:45pm | Health Break
3:00pm | In the Hot Seat: Ethics in Action
Government lawyers often face complex ethical dilemmas that require balancing competing duties — to their client, the public and the justice system. Presented with real-world scenarios, experienced counsel are put on the spot to share their strategies for navigating tensions between privilege, confidentiality and secrecy.
Moderator: Lorne D. Lachance, Ministry of Attorney General of BC
Christa Akey, DOJ Canada, BC Regional Office
Craig Cameron, DOJ Canada, BC Regional Office
Bridget Gilbride, Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP
4:20pm | Closing Remarks