We are pleased to announce our newest COVID-19 Access to Justice All-Star: John-Paul E. Boyd, a family law arbitrator, mediator, and parenting coordinator practicing primarily in British Columbia and Alberta. Since our lives have been challenged immensely in the age of COVID-19, John-Paul – or JP as he is known to his friends – has been a great source of information for many folks struggling with issues concerning family legal matters in these uncertain times. Through his YouTube channel, Five Minute Family Law with John-Paul Boyd QC, he provides valuable legal information for those who are interested in learning more about family law and COVID-19-related topics.
The COVID-19 pandemic has turned our lives upside down. We are more than ever in need of alternative methods that would enable lawyers and their clients to adapt to these unprecedented times. JP’s use of online mediation and arbitration sessions with clients is a great example of the alternative methods that can be used for dealing with the current limitations imposed on lawyers for in-person meetings, and the interruptions caused to court hearings. As JP illustrates in his article, “The End Is Not Yet Nigh: Remote Dispute Resolution in the Age of COVID-19”, there are alternative dispute resolution methods that allow more flexibility for lawyers to help their clients even when the courts are closed. Utilizing technologies to conduct arbitration and mediation sessions remotely through videoconferencing, instead of taking the traditional path of litigation, is a great way for all stakeholders in the legal profession to implement more modern and cost-effective services.
Robert G. Harvie, Q.C., (and Chair of NSRLP’s Advisory Board), had the following to say about JP and his work:
“The breakdown of a family relationship is a uniquely challenging experience, emotionally and legally, and this challenge has been amplified when arising in the age of COVID. The work John-Paul has done to engage and assist Canadians struggling to find their way when the Courts have been almost completely inaccessible during the COVID pandemic has been, in my opinion, of incredible value to the public and to our profession.”
John-Paul is truly an Access to Justice All-Star. Congratulations JP!
Written by NSRLP Research Assistant Negin Shahraki
Thank you very much for this honour, Julie, Negin, Maya, Dayna and Rob! I’m humbled by the recognition.
Very well-deserved!