Each year on December 5, International Volunteer Day offers an opportunity to recognize the individuals who give their time, energy and expertise to strengthen our communities. At the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association (OTLA), volunteers are integral to our work and to the continued success of our mission.  From members serving on committees and task forces, to those contributing to advocacy initiatives, educational programming, mentorship and community engagement, OTLA volunteers play …

As the leaves turn and the crisp autumn air settles across Ontario, Thanksgiving offers us a moment to reflect personally and professionally on the shared values that bind us all together in a world that seems to be increasingly divided. At its core, Thanksgiving is about gratitude. OTLA’s membership is made up of some of the very best lawyers in the province: those who have dedicated their careers to …

When we talk about self-care, it’s often misunderstood as indulgent or selfish. But in reality, it’s a foundational act of responsibility. Consider the principle behind the instructions we receive from the pilot and flight attendants during pre-flight boarding of a commercial airplane: that in the event of an emergency or drop in cabin pressurization, a passenger must secure their own oxygen mask before assisting others. …

When my kids were young, I enjoyed watching Sesame Street with them. I thought some of the humour was so clever, it had to be written for parents. My favorite bit was when Ernie shows Bert a blank canvas. “How do you like my painting?” Ernie asks. “What painting?” says Bert. “It’s a blank canvas.” “No, it’s not, it’s a cow eating grass.” “Where’s the …