It’s been too long since we’ve celebrated an “Access to Justice All-Star”, so we thought now would be the perfect time to relaunch this feature, and showcase some of the incredible work A2J advocates from across Canada are doing to make a difference, particularly during the pandemic.
Our first COVID-19 A2J All-Star is Wayne Barkauskas!
During the COVID-19 crisis, Wayne has been keeping his followers up-to-date on COVID-19 related court cases, especially when it comes to domestic abuse, co-parenting, and unusual divorce issues. He has offered to mediate and arbitrate matters at a reduced hourly rate for those in need on a case-by-case basis, and recently took part in a legal Q & A on co-parenting during the COVID-19 crisis with PwrSwitch, a cloud-based communications tool for lawyers, parent coordinators, and individuals. Wayne’s colleague Andrea Silverstone speaks to Wayne’s dedication to the Calgary domestic violence sector, and how he has most recently stepped forward, “to provide online trainings for our sector about how to address family law issues that are arising as a result of COVID-19.” Read more about Wayne and his wonderful work and volunteer efforts here.
Our second COVID-19 A2J All-Star is John-Paul Boyd!
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. As well, 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. Read more about John-Paul and his great work here.
Stay tuned for more All-Stars in the coming weeks – and please let us know if there’s someone you’d like to nominate! You can reach us at representingyourself@gmail.com.