News

February 2012

• On February 21 Cory Withrow spoke at a session of the CBA Nova Scotia's Construction Law Section, on the topic of requests for proposals versus tendering following the Supreme Court's decision in Guysborough (Municipality) v. Resource Recovery Fund Board Inc.

January 2012

• The partners at Burchells are pleased to welcome David Lewis and Cory Withrow into the partnership.

An active member of the firm's transactions group, David's busy practice focuses on residential real estate transactions, wills and estate planning, and corporate and commercial law.  He is our go-to lawyer on residential property matters with a growing profile in Nova Scotia's legal community.

Cory completed his articles with us in 2004, since then developing a wide-ranging advocacy practice centred on insurance defence, builders' liens, construction disputes and other complex commercial matters.  Cory also devotes time to the Canadian Bar Association, most recently as chair of Nova Scotia's Civil Litigation subsection.

Burchells has built its reputation on lawyers like these and we are proud to have them. Congratulations to you both on this career milestone!

December 2011

• On December 1 a team of Burchells lawyers and staff wrapped up their participation in the Prostate Cancer Canada’s Movember campaign.  Participants, or “MoBros,” are sponsored to grow one-month moustaches in support of prostate cancer research and awareness of men’s health issues. This year Burchells’ Movember team (photo below – missing Derek Simon) raised $5,510.

Our participation was part of a larger initiative within the legal community led by the Canadian Bar Association's Nova Scotia branch, the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, and the Nova Scotia Judiciary. All told, the Nova Scotia legal community worked together to raise more than $92,000 toward this worthy cause. Warm thanks to all who participated along with those who donated their time and support to make the campaign such a success!

November 2011

• Another year, another name change: for November 18's Halifax Rock for Dimes battle of the bands the Burchells in-house rock band is calling itself "Buck McFate."  Brian Awad, David Hutt, Jonathan Saumier, Theo MacIntosh, Donna Davis, Robert Currie and Gord MacDonald will be taking the stage with other bands for Team Canada, playing Canadian songs, against the Team Britain bands from other (unpatriotic) law firms and corporate organizations. This is always a great night out for an excellent cause, benefitting March of Dimes Canada’s Stroke Recovery Canada and Conductive Education programs.

• Moustaches began sprouting throughout the Burchells offices as "Movember" began, in support of the Movember campaign for prostate cancer research.  Team Burchells has 10 members so we can devote a fair amount of stubble -- please consider a donation to this worthy cause.

October 2011

• October's issue of Canadian Lawyer magazine includes a two page profile of Burchells LLP lawyer Naiomi Metallic, in an article entitled "A Good Thing Going On." That you are, Naiomi!

Justice Michael Wood

• "The Honourable Mr. Justice Michael J. Wood." 

Our [now former] litigation partner and co-manager is going to have to start getting used to his new title.  On September 29, 2011 Michael Wood was appointed to the bench of the Nova Scotia Supreme Court.  Burchells LLP congratulates Michael on this career milestone and unparalleled honour.

In his successful former life Justice Wood's wide-ranging civil litigation and administrative law practice encompassed construction disputes, complex contract and business matters, employment law, professional regulation and insurance, among other areas. His practice was characterized not only by pragmatism and competence, but by a collegial approach to the adversarial process. He earned and kept the respect of lawyers, both inside and outside the firm.

Justice Wood was called to the bar in 1982 following legal studies at Dalhousie and a Bachelor of Sciences from Acadia University. He was appointed Queen's Counsel in 1999. Until his appointment Justice Wood was a managing partner at Burchells and past-chair of our litigation practice group.

We have known Michael Wood a long time.   Take it from us: he will be a great judge.  Congratulations Michael!

His Lordship will preside in Halifax.

September 2011

• Alan V. Parish, Q.C., prominent litigator and a member of our management committee, has again been selected by his peers for inclusion in the sixth edition of the Best Lawyers® list for Canada in the practice areas of Corporate and Commercial Litigation and Defamation and Media Law. Congratulations to Alan on this well-earned recognition.

August 2011

• Litigation partner Cheryl Canning was called to the Prince Edward Island bar on August 25, providing further breadth and depth to the range of legal services Burchells can provide to its clients. 

• On August 15 Burchells was honoured to co-host a reception for delegates to the Canadian Bar Association's annual Canadian Legal Congress, held this year in Halifax.  Thanks to all the members of our profession from across Canada who were able to join us at the Hart & Thistle; we hope you enjoyed your stay in our beautiful city.

July 2011

• Naiomi Metallic offered her insights as a panelist on a July 28 webcast, hosted jointly by the Assembly of First Nations and the Canadian Human Rights Commission, looking at the repeal of Canadian Human Rights Act section 67.  Until repeal this provision restricted the ability of First Nations people living on reserve to file human rights complaints against band councils or the federal government.

June 2011

• We are pleased to advise that N’kela Smith has been awarded the 2011 Burchells Summer Internship and Scholarship. This program is available to qualifying African Nova Scotian and Aboriginal Citadel High School students. In addition to receiving assistance with post-secondary studies, the winner also spends six weeks as an intern with Burchells LLP.  The six week internship will introduce N’kela to a variety of roles within the firm and will provide her with relevant experience for her resume. N’kela will join Burchells on July 11.

• On Friday, June 10 former Burchells articled clerks Raman Khabra and Tiffany Robertson received their calls to the bar at a well-attended ceremony at Pier 21 in Halifax. The challenges of the articling year do not stop at the exam and bar course.  Both put their shoulders to the wheel on a variety of our cases, and their work was excellent.  Congratulations to both as they embark on their new profession.

• On June 3 Naiomi Metallic participated in a closed roundtable discussion on strategies to put more women on the ballot at all levels of government.  Based on her extensive background in constitutional law, co-sponsors Equal Voice and the Women's Legal Action and Education Fund (LEAF) invited Naiomi to participate in the session with former politicians Kim Campbell, Anne McLellan and Frances Lankin. 

• June 1 marks the start-date for new articled clerks Betony Rowland and Lauren Grant, as well as summer student and 2012 clerk Leon Tovey.  As summer students themselves last year, Lauren and Betony will no doubt hit the ground running.  Welcome back.

• Burchells LLP is proud to welcome new associate lawyer Tiffany Robertson into our practice. Tiffany articled with us in 2010-11, and before that was a student here during law school. We are proud to add her skilled analysis and advocacy to our general litigation practice.

May 2011

• Incoming articled clerk Lauren Grant has been honoured not only with a profile in this month's Dalhousie News, but also as the 2011 winner of The Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie's Judge Corinne E. Sparks Award.  The annual award, established by the Dalhousie Black Law Students Association, celebrates students that are committed to using their legal education as a tool for change in their community, whose personal and academic endeavours most accurately reflect Judge Sparks' spirit of leadership and community service.  Congratulations Lauren, we look forward to your arrival next month!

• We take great pride in congratulating our 2010-11 articled clerks, Raman Khabra and Tiffany Robertson, on successfully completing both the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society's onerous skills course, and the bar exam.  Now nothing more than a waistcoat, robe and tabs stand between them and their call to the bar next month!

• With Naiomi Metallic's at-large seat win on May 2, and Michael Wood's election in April, Burchells is proud and humbled to have two lawyers on the Nova Scotia Barristers Society's Bar Council.  Our gratitude goes out to all the lawyers who generously offered to sit on Council, and congratulations to those who were elected.

April 2011

• Burchells lawyer Naiomi Metallic is running for an At-Large seat on the Nova Scotia Barristers Society's Bar Council.  The At-Large positions ensure Council reflects the diversity of our profession and community. Given Naiomi's breadth of practice, cultural background and multi-lingualism she offers a unique range of different and important perspectives to the work of Council.

• Continuing the Burchells tradition of service to the public and profession, in early April partner Michael Wood, Q.C. was elected to serve on the Nova Scotia Barristers Society's Bar Council as one of Halifax's regional representatives.  By a general ballot of HRM lawyers, Michael received the most votes of any candidate.

March 2011

• A Special Winter 2011 issue of Burchells' Business First: Aboriginal Business Law newsletter authored by Derek Simon was published on March 15.

• On March 12, 2011, associate lawyer Naiomi Metallic heads to Toronto as a panelist at SpinLaw 2011, an Osgoode Hall Law School conference aimed at raising awareness and generating discussion about public interest issues. She is speaking on “The Canadian Government’s Legislation of Aboriginal Identity.”

February 2011

• Partner Ann Smith published an article for the Burchells LLP Education Law Update, entitled, Penalties and Expulsion for being openly critical of your Prof or a Program of Study?

• On February 24 articled clerk Tiffany Robertson may have made Nova Scotia juridical history.  The Supreme Court's Chief Justice granted a motion in chambers conceived, prepared and argued by Tiffany, with Jason Cooke's help, to serve documents on an opposing party by way of posting on Facebook.   Chief Justice Kennedy granted the order noting that, "not everyone who looks at your profile on Facebook is necessarily your 'friend.'"

January 2011

• Burchells' receptionist Shayna Piercy was profiled in a recent Enfield Weekly Press article by Anita Benedict, describing Shayna's plans to volunteer with an aid organization in Tanzania this Spring.  We are proud of Shayna's altruism but, selfishly, will hate to be without her.

• Three Burchells LLP lawyers have been recognized as top practitioners in their areas.  For its 2011 directory, Lexpert identifies Bruce Clarke, Q.C. and Stuart Gilby as leaders in Aboriginal law, and Alan Parish, Q.C. as a leading practitioner in corporate-commercial litigation and defamation.  Lexpert is Canada's leading source of news and information about the business of law, and its ratings are derived from polling among practicing lawyers. 

November 2010

• Derek Simon is competing in this year's Great Stocking Stuffer Campaign for the Salvation Army, running from November 29 to December 17 -- see Derek's Youtube video here.  The project raises money and awareness for the Salvation Army's winter relief work.  Track Derek's progress and give him a boost at www.stuffersblog.com.

October 2010

• A huge Burchells LLP contingent participated in this year's Play in a Day supporting the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia.  The October 23 event required the group to learn and mount a version of Romeo and Juliet in a mere 24 hours. Along with great staff involvement the team included Derek Simon, Jason Cooke, Jonathan Saumier and Kelly Greenwood; Andrew Rankin serves on the LISNS board of directors.  Click pics below for larger versions.

• Naiomi W. Metallic was this year's keynote speaker at the October 18, 2010 LEAF Persons Day Breakfast, celebrating the landmark 1929 "Persons Case" granting women the right to participate in all aspects of public life in Canada.  Naiomi presented a paper on Aboriginal Law and Equality Rights.

• On October 13 Burchells LLP lawyer Derek Simon was named one of 21 exceptional young professionals in Nova Scotia selected to attend the 21inc Emerging Leaders Summit in November.  See Premier Darrell Dexter's press release here.

September 2010

• Burchells' own rock band is set to compete again in this year's Rock for Dimes charity battle of the corporate bands, on October 29, 2010.  This great March of Dimes Canada event supports Conductive Education® Nova Scotia, an innovative program that blends elements of education and rehabilitation to improve the mobility and self-confidence of children with neuro-motor disabilities. 

Guns N' Butter takes its name from this year's event theme -- the '80s -- and includes Brian Awad on bass, David Hutt on guitar and harmonica, and Jonathan Saumier on drums.  Winning isn't everything, of course, and we're not saying the band is going to win the competition; but the band is going to win the competition.

May 2010

• Every step matters to associate Jonathan Saumier who participated in the 2010 MS Walk on Sunday, May 30. Organized by the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, the Walk is a major fundraiser held in 160 cities and towns across Canada. The Burchells team was proud to sponsor its newest associate, Jonathan and his girlfriend Emily Durant, who lives with MS.

Congratulations Jonathan and Emily!

• Litigation partner Brian Awad was quoted in the most recent issue of Canadian Lawyer magazine, commenting on the Nova Scotia Supreme Court's recent decision in Peach v. Nova Scotia (Tranportation and Infrastructure Renewal) .  Brian represented the appellant in a freedom on information request resisted by the government on the basis of privilege.  In a landmark decision on access to information, privilege and waiver, he successfully argued that by releasing a summary of a privileged opinion the department effectively waived privilege over it. 

April 2010

• Burchells partner Brian Awad was profiled in an April 16, 2010 Lawyers Weekly article by Donnalee Moulton, "Lawyer by Day, Guitarist by Night."

January 2010

• That's Bruce Clarke Q.C., thank you very much.  On January 28, 2010 the provincial cabinet announced its appointments for the designation of Queen's Counsel, a distinction reserved for the most "exceptional" Nova Scotia lawyers.  Bruce Clarke was one of them.  The "Q.C." identifies lawyers of exceptional skill and leadership, who make a difference in the community.   We've always known Bruce demonstrated "professional integrity, good character and outstanding contributions to the practice of law," but it's surely gratifying to have our partner recognized for those virtues.  Congratulations Bruce -- you had it coming.

November, 2009

Burchells lawyer Naiomi Metallic contributed an article to the most recent edition of the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society magazine, the Society Record. Invoking her work on the Society's Race Relations Committee, and with Aboriginal lawyers group Eastern Door, Naiomi writes on issues surrounding judicial appointments and minority lawyers.

November, 2009

We are pleased to tell you all that Jennifer and Andrew were successful in an appeal they recently argued on behalf of Royal & SunAlliance. You can see the decision here:

http://www.courts.ns.ca/decisions_recent/documents/2009nsca110.pdf

Royal & SunAlliance had been sued as a Section D insurer to provide coverage to a personal injury claimant. The plaintiff had been injured by a driver who was at fault for the accident, and who was driving a vehicle belonged to someone else. The insurer of the at-fault vehicle denied coverage on the basis that the driver was driving without permission. This left Royal to pay the claim of their insured.

At the trial level, Justice Stewart found that the at-fault driver did have consent to drive the vehicle. This ought to have resulted in a finding that the company who insured the at-fault vehicle was responsible to respond to the plaintiff's claim. Instead, she found that despite the consent, there was still no insurance coverage because the driver wasn't carrying out some purpose in favour of the owner, and Royal was still responsible to respond to the plaintiff's claim.

The claim wasn't huge, but the principle was. The outcome of the trial simply didn't make sense and was very significant to insurers in general. On appeal, it was found that once Justice Stewart found there had been consent, the at-fault insurer was obliged to provide coverage, and Royal is off the hook.

This is a decision that will be used as a precedent on this issue for years to come. Congrats to Jennifer and Andrew for ensuring that justice prevailed.

November, 2009

On November 3, 2009 Cheryl Canning chaired the morning sessions of the 2nd Annual Women in Law Conference at the Halifax Club.  Cheryl also presented at the conference on the topic of "Making Contributions Visible". 

October, 2009

On October 22, 2009 litigation partners Brian Awad , David Hutt , and legal assistant Theo MacIntosh, celebrated the 40th anniversary of Woodstock with a performance in the March of Dimes' annual "Rock for Dimes" battle of the corporate bands.  Burchells' entry,  Flower Cannon , also benefited from the talents of articled clerk Donna Davis' husband Robert Currie, as well as Jonathan Langlois-Sadubin and Jude Hall.  A crowd in excess of 500 souls attended the show, making this year's event an unprecedented success for this great cause.  Flower Cannon didn't win, nor did it deserve to.  But we had more fun than anybody.

October, 2009

September, 2009

Burchells litigation-group partners, Brian Awad and Jennifer Ross will be presenters at Insight's 2nd Annual E-Discovery and E-Documents conference to be held at the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax on September 30 and October 1, 2009.

September, 2009

Derek Simon has recently published an article in The Halifax Chamber of Commerce bulletin.  Derek has written many articles for the Chamber and this article has made it to the front page of their Eco-News Bulletin.  The article is entitled "Green Leasing: deepening the landlord/tenant relationship."   The article discusses how commercial landlords and tenants can use green leasing to achieve common environmental goals, save money, and strengthen their relationship.

September, 2009

Despite our warnings, thrill-seeker, adventurer and Burchells controller René LeBlanc decided to leave for lunch the hard way today.  What, elevators too good for you?!  On September 18, 2009 René worked up the nerve to rappell 22-storeys down the side of 1801 Hollis & Duke in support of Easter Seals , as part of its Drop Zone fundraiser .  We congratulate René for raising over $2,000 for this great cause, and for not backing down from a double-dog-dare.  The yellow helmet suits you!

September, 2009

The partners at Burchells are pleased to welcome our newest associate, Derek A. Simon.

Derek's experience with another of Halifax 's major firms makes him a great addition to our transaction group. He has experience advising a wide range of clients, including businesses large and small, co-operatives and Aboriginal governments. Derek also dedicates volunteer time to several community organizations and a number of boards, while still finding time to see his articles on business law published in various publications throughout the region.  He enjoys cycling, hockey, ultimate, and the outdoors.

Derek's practice at Burchells focuses on real estate, corporate and commercial transactions and aboriginal law.

July, 2009

Burchells is pleased to announce the recipient of our Summer Internship and Scholarship for African Nova Scotia and Aboriginal Students of Citadel High School.

The recipient of our Summer Internship and Scholarship is Shanice Bennett. Shanice has recently graduated from Citadel High School and is from the Halifax area. She is now employed at Burchells under the Summer Internship and Scholarship program which we created in 2008. The Burchells Summer Internship and Scholarship has two main components, a paid summer internship at Burchells and a scholarship to assist with the costs of post-secondary education. Shanice is working with the members of the Burchells team, and is being exposed to many areas of office administration and management, and is interacting with and assisting our lawyers, our paralegals and our other staff. Shanice has enrolled at Dalhousie University beginning in September and plans to become a nurse when she graduates. The Partners and Staff at Burchells all wish Shanice the best of success with her future career.

June, 2009

Burchells is pleased to announce the addition of two new associate lawyers to our team. Paul Thorne and Roula Athanasiou were admitted to the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society on June 12th , 2009. Both Paul and Roula articled with Burchells for the past year.

May, 2009

Kelly L. Greenwood was one of the speakers at the Canadian Bar Association Nova Scotia Branch Corporate Commercial Law Conference, The Agony and Ecstasy of the Corporate Union.  Kelly spoke about the purpose and use of shareholders' agreements and buy/sell arrangements and how they can be used to prepare for the possibility of one of the "Dreaded D's" taking place:  Death, Disability, Divorce, Disinterest, Departure, Disqualification.

February, 2009

Burchells lawyer Naiomi W. Metallic is popping up on TV lately!  Part of Nova Scotia's "Come to Life" initiative, Naiomi has a vignette all to herself.  In it she talks about her clerkship with the Supreme Court of Canada, the opportunities to which it gave rise and her decision to pursue her career here in Nova Scotia with us.  Good choice.

January, 2009

On behalf of the Partners, congratulations go to Stuart Gilby who was admitted to the New Brunswick Bar on January 22, 2009. Stuart worked very hard to reach this milestone. Stuart's admission to the New Brunswick bar will enhance his ability, and the entire firm's ability, to service clients throughout the region.

January, 2009

The partners at Burchells are delighted to welcome Andrew Rankin into the partnership.

Andrew started with Burchells as an articled clerk, became an energetic and capable associate lawyer, and now enters partnership an invaluable member of the firm's commercial litigation group. His business and banking litigation experience makes him a go-to lawyer on debtor and creditor issues and a crucial resource both to Burchells and to our clients. Andrew also volunteers his time on the Board of the Legal Information Society, ensuring access to information about the law.

Burchells has built its reputation on lawyers like Andrew. We are proud to have him. Congratulations on this career milestone!

October 2008

Best Lawyers in Canada 2009 Edition

Using confidential lawyer surveys, the Best Lawyers organization compiles an annual list of top lawyers in various practice areas. We are proud but not surprised to see Burchells lawyers in the 2009 publication of Best Lawyers in Canada .

Alan Parish, QC is listed in the practice areas of Corporate and Commercial Litigation, Defamation and Media Law as well as Securities Law.

D. Bruce Clarke has been listed in Aboriginal Law.

Michael J. Wood, QC appears in the lists for Administrative and Public Law, Corporate and Commercial Litigation, Legal Malpractice Law and Personal Injury Litigation.

Stuart C.B. Gilby has been listed as among the best lawyers in Canada for Aboriginal Law.

Because lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be included, a listing in Best Lawyers is widely regarded within the legal profession as a significant honour, conferred on a lawyer by his or her peers. For 25 years, Best Lawyers lists have earned the respect of the profession, the media, and the public, as the most reliable, unbiased source of legal referrals anywhere.

Burchells LLP has more listed lawyers in Best Lawyers in the field of Aboriginal Law, Administrative Law and Public Law than any other firm in Halifax, or in fact all of Nova Scotia.

October, 2008

Kelly L. Greenwood presented a seminar on Estate Planning at the 2008 Annual Conference for members of the Certified General Accountants Association of Nova Scotia.

September, 2008

On September 19th, 2008, our associate lawyer, Denny Pickup volunteered to join the Easter Seals Drop Zone fund raiser and rappelled down the 1801 Hollis Street Tower. We are proud that Denny was able to help with this fundraiser which supports children and adults with physical disabilities in Nova Scotia . 

September, 2008

Our summer law student, Jonathan Saumier, who will be returning to article with us June, 2009, has been awarded a bursary from the Association des Juristes d'Expression Français de Nouvelle-Écosse and the Minister of Education in New Brunswick as a joint endeavor. Congratulations Jonathan! 

September, 2008

On September 15, 2008, Brian Awad was a member of a seminar panel at the Atlantic Film Festival. Brian's speaking topic was broadcast license terms and the CRTC.

September, 2008

Members of our firm, including Ann E. Smith, Kelly Greenwood, Paul Thorne and Jason Cooke, performed at a fundraiser held at Neptune Theatre. The event was called "Play in a Day". This fundraiser was in support of the Nova Scotia Legal information Society. 

July, 2008

Naiomi Metallic, our newest associate lawyer has been featured in several newspaper articles in The Ottawa Citizen. They are entitled "The battle to keep young workers" and "An untapped labour pool". You can click on the links highlighted to read these featured articles.

July, 2008

Burchells is pleased to announce the recipient of our Summer Internship and Scholarship for African Nova Scotia and Aboriginal Students of Citadel High School.

The recipient of our summer scholarship program is Lindell Smith. Lindell has recently graduated from Citadel High School and is from the Halifax area. He is now employed at Burchells under the newly formed Summer Internship/Scholarship program. Lindell will be working with the members of the Burchells team and he will be exposed to many areas of law that may help him further his career. Lindell has enrolled at the Nova Scotia Community College , Dartmouth campus, in the Recording Arts Program. Lindell plans to become a professional Audio engineer. Burchells wishes Lindell the best of success with his future career.  

June, 2008

Butterworths - The Law of Bilingual Interpretation

Burchells is pleased to announce that our own Naiomi W. Metallic has co-authored a publication, "The Law of Bilingual Interpretation", with The Honourable Mr. Justice Michel Bastarache, and fellow Supreme Court of Canada clerks Regan Morris and Chris Essert. This publication was released by Lexis Nexis in June, 2008. 

May, 2008

THE BURCHELLS SUMMER INTERNSHIP AND SCHOLARSHIP FOR AFRICAN NOVA SCOTIA AND ABORIGINAL STUDENTS OF CITADEL HIGH SCHOOL  

Burchells is pleased to introduce the Burchells Scholarship and Summer Internship for African Nova Scotia and Aboriginal Students of Citadel High School. Burchells' Managing Partner, Michael J. Wood, Q.C., announced the scholarship at a reception on Tuesday, May 13, 2008 in the cafeteria of Citadel High School .  

The Burchells Scholarship and Internship Program has two main components: a summer internship at the firm, and a scholarship to assist with the costs of post-secondary education.  

One deserving recipient will be offered a paid summer internship at Burchells, where he or she will be exposed to the many administrative aspects of running a law firm, and will have a chance to interact with and assist our paralegals and lawyers. This, we hope, will assist the recipient in assessing his or her own career options.  

Burchells is working with the administration of Citadel High School on the selection of the recipient of the Burchells Summer Internship and Scholarship for its 2008 inaugural year.  

Guests in attendance at the May 13, 2008 reception included The Honourable Mayann E. Francis, O.N.S., Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, several representatives of the Government of Nova Scotia, and representatives of many other organizations including the Halifax Regional School Board and Citadel High School.

April, 2008

Cory Withrow, presented at the Canadian Bar Association Construction Law Section Meeting, on April 2, 2008. The topic Cory presented dealt with advising the Section of the recent revisions outlined in the CCDC2-2008 Stipulated Price Construction Contract that replaced the former CCDC-1994.

March, 2008

A Tradition of Excellence and Expertise

...and of breaking new ground. On March 7 our own Naiomi Metallic became the first Nova Scotia lawyer in history to be called to the bar in English, French and Mi'kmaq. We are delighted to congratulate Naiomi, and introduce her as Burchells' newest associate lawyer.

Naiomi comes to us from the Listuguj First Nation on Quebec 's Gaspé coast. She summered with Burchells while attending Dalhousie Law School , before attending the University of Ottawa to add a civil law degree to her achievements. She then won a coveted clerkship at the Supreme Court of Canada where she spent 15 months assisting the Honourable Justice Michel Bastarache. While with Canada 's top court Naiomi not only dealt with the most interesting current legal issues facing Canadian courts, but had the honour of sharing author credits with Justice Bastarache for a forthcoming text on bilingualism.

People like Naiomi define Burchells. As a member of our Litigation and Aboriginal Law practice groups, Naiomi's clients will have the benefit of her remarkable background.  

February, 2008

On February 19, 2008 our own Michael Wood and Jennifer Ross made submissions before the Supreme Court of Canada in New Brunswick 's early etirement case involving Potash Corp. The case garnered a great deal of media attention representing the Court's first review of mandatory retirement policies in 20 years. Burchells is proud to have lawyers capable of representing clients at all levels in the court system, including  Canada 's top court.   

January, 2008

With great pleasure Burchells welcomes Cheryl Canning into the partnership.  

Cheryl knows insurance litigation inside and out, and since joining Burchells as an associate has been an invaluable resource for us and our clients. But her dedicated, client-focused approach goes well beyond files. Cheryl has presented on insurance issues at conferences and for clients, and has published in nationwide industry publications. Also an active community leader, she is involved with our Barrister's Society and the Kidney Foundation.   

Burchells has built its reputation on lawyers like Cheryl. We are proud to have her. Congratulations on this career milestone!

October 2007

Claims Canada , an insurance industry magazine, has published an article by Cheryl Canning entitled "Possibilities, Probabilities and Chances: Assessing Future Pecuniary Losses".  

On October 18, 2007, Brian Awad spoke at The Canadian Institute's 7th Annual Administrative Law & Practice Conference held at the Chateau Laurier in Ottawa , Ontario . Brian's speaking topic was "Expert Evidence and Judicial Notice in the Administrative Justice System."  

On October 23, 2007, Burchells fielded a rock band and competed in the annual Rock for Kids - Battle of the Lawyer Bands in support of the March of Dimes. Band members from Burchells included Brian Awad, David Hutt, Naiomi Metallic and Theo MacIntosh. The Burchells band was rounded out with Dalhousie Law School Professor Rob Currie and first-year student Ian MacIsaac.

September 2007

The recently appointed Registrar of Joint Stock Companies for the Province of Nova Scotia is cleaning house. As of Monday September 10, 2007, the Registrar has sent letters to the registered addresses of companies that have had their registration under the Corporations Registration Act revoked for non-payment of their annual registration fees since the years 1994 and 1995. These letters are the first step in the process to strike the companies off the Register of Companies pursuant to section 136 of the Companies Act. Proceedings to strike companies off the Register of Companies were last taken in 2004.

In the event that any of the companies that are struck off the Register of Companies through this process own any property, that property becomes property of the Crown. Accordingly, it is advisable for companies that may be struck from the Register of Companies to take steps to convey all of its assets or to have the company's registration reinstated.

For further information, please contact Kelly L. Greenwood or any other member of our corporate transactions team.

As a member of the ARC Group of Canada Burchells is participating in this year's Risk and Insurance Management Society of Canada's conference and convention in Halifax . Among other events the ARC Group is proud to host a cruise on Nova Scotia 's sailing ambassador, the Bluenose II, for Monday evening.

August, 2007

During the week of August 27 to 31, 2007, Brian Awad volunteered his time to help set the buoys that marked the race courses for the Mobility Cup regatta, the national championship for disabled sailors. Brian learned that, in places, Bedford Basin is over 300 feet deep - which is a long way to drop and haul up repeatedly a 45-pound anchor. the event was held on Bedford Basin .

July, 2007

BestLawyers.com has listed four of our lawyers in its 2007 publication, "The Best Lawyers in Canada . "Alan Parish, QC is listed in the practice areas of Corporate and Commercial Litigation, Defamation and Media law and Securities Law. D. Bruce Clarke has been listed in the practice area of Aboriginal Law. Michael J. Wood, QC is listed in the practice area of Corporate and Commercial Litigation and Legal Malpractice Law. Stuart C.B. Gilby has been listed in the practice area of Aboriginal Law. Because lawyers are not requiredor allowed to pay a fee to be included, a listing in Best Lawyers is widely regarded within the legal profession as a significant honor, conferred on a lawyer by his or her peers. For 25 years, Best lawyers lists have earned the respect of the profession, the media, and the public, as the most reliable, unbiased source of legal referrals anywhere."  

Burchells partner Brian Awad was quoted in The Daily News on July 18th, 2007. Brian is representing the Right to Know Coalition of Nova Scotia in what the newspaper described as a precedent-setting case concerning access to information.

David Hutt has had an articled published in the Lawyers Weekly magazine, entitled " Wilson - Insurer cannot collect from claimant without contractural reimbursement right."

June 8th, 2007

Burchells is pleased to announce the addition of Denny Pickup to our team of associate lawyers. Denny had articled with Burchells for the past year and while attending law school ran his own successful contracting firm.

February 15, 2007

Burchells is pleased to announce the addition of a new associate lawyer in our Property Department. David Lewis joined our firm on February 12th, 2007. David's practice is focused primarily in the areas of residential property and corporate, commercial law. He is an authorized lawyer with Property Online for the purpose of migrating real property under the Land Registration Act.  

January 1, 2007

Burchells wish to announce the addition of two new partners to the partnership. Jennifer Ross and David Hutt, both former Associate Lawyers for Burchells, were admitted to the partnership on January 1, 2007. Jennifer Ross specializes in Civil Litigation and Administrative Law while David Hutt specializes in Commercial and Civil Litigation.  

October 26th, 2006

Kevin Quigley, David Cameron, Brian Awad, Cheryl Canning and David Hutt were in Toronto for an event kicking-off Burchells' association with the ARC Group Canada. ARC is an association of law firms joining forces to offer high-quality nationwide service to Canada 's insurance and self-insured communities. In Toronto ARC introduced itself to these communities by hosting a conference featuring a presentation by Ali Reza, of Exponent Failure Analysis Consultants, on insurance issues arising from the September 11 attacks on New York 's World Trade Center .

October 18, 2006

Brian Awad was in Ottawa on October 18th to lead the pre-conference workshop at the Canadian Institute's 6th Annual Advanced Administrative Law and Practice Conference. The workshop included an interactive lecture, as well as a mock tribunal hearing and hearing of an application for judicial review presided over by the Executive Legal Officer of the Supreme Court of Canada.

June 9th, 2006

Two of our articled clerks, from the articling year, 2005 to 2006 have been hired by the firm. H. Jane Anderson and Jason T. Cooke have been admitted to the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society at a ceremony held at The Law Courts, on Friday, June 9th, 2006. We wish both Jane and Jason the best of success in their chosen career as lawyers and we are proud to add them to our team.

June 1, 2006

Burchells is pleased to add two new articled clerks to our firm. Denny Pickup and Jason Podrats joined our firm for the 2006-2007 articling year. Burchells wishes both Denny and Jason the best of success with their articling term.

May 25, 2006

Brian Awad - Article in Lawyers Weekly Magazine

April 27th, 2006

Burchells congratulates Peter Green. Peter was awarded the 2005 Distinguished Service Award from the Canadian Bar Association. Peter's gifts to his profession and community are truly extraordinary. His contributions go back to his earliest days in practice and are two numerous to list. Highlights include terms as president of the CBA's Nova Scotia branch and on the national board, tireless work in the CBA's sections and committees, and even volunteering his time to teach law practice management to lawyers in China . The lawyers at Burchells aspire to Peter's exemplary standard of service to the public and the profession. Congratulations on an award well earned.  

June 6, 2005

D. Bruce Clarke, a partner of Burchells, has recently had the honour of being selected by his peers, during the 2005 Bar Council Elections. We wish to congratulate Bruce on being selected to carry out this duty as a member of the council for the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society

September 7th, 2005

Burchells is pleased to announce the addition of two new partners to the partnership. David Cameron and Kelly Greenwood have joined the partnership on September 6th and 7th, 2005. 

November 21, 2005

Our former partner, Robert L. Barnes, QC has been appointed to the Federal Court of Canada effective immediately. This is a great honour and Bob will do us proud in this next stage of his legal career as The Honourable Mr. Justice Robert L. Barnes.

April 18, 2005

Wayne Howatt has recently been appointed as a Land Registration Auditor.  Land Registration Auditors are appointed by the Nova Scotia Bar Society in conjunction with the Department of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, to review the Opinions and Abstracts of Title filed by lawyers at the Land Registration Offices to assess their compliance with the requirements of the new Land Registration Act.