PROGRAM

9:00 - 9:15

Welcome Remarks

9:15 - 10:15

Opening Plenary

Jaime Watt, Executive Chairman, Navigator Ltd. 

Well-known Canadian political strategist and best-selling author, Jaime Watt, will draw on decades of experience at the intersection of law, politics, and public opinion to examine the growing normalization of hostility toward legal institutions. Jaime will review emerging trends in liberal democracies and explore how CEOs of Law Associations can effectively confront these pressures with resolve. 

10:15 - 10:30

Refreshment Break

10:30 - 12:30  

Module 1: Role of the Profession in Supporting the Rule of Law

Standing Firm: Law Associations as Guardians of the Rule of Law

At a time when democratic institutions and judicial independence face unprecedented pressure in the United States and around the world, law associations are being called upon to do more than represent their members — they are being asked to defend the foundations of the legal order itself. This session will provide a candid assessment of where those pressures are most acute, what initiatives law association leaders are undertaking to push back, and how mandatory and voluntary bars are navigating the tension between institutional advocacy and member diversity. Panelists will share concrete examples of civic legal education programs, advocacy strategies, and coalition-building efforts that are making a difference, while candidly exploring the limits of what our organizations can and should do.

Moderator :  Robert Spagnoletti, Chief Executive Officer, The District of Columbia Bar

Panelists: 

• Sadina Montani, Past-President, D.C. Bar
• Leah Kosokowsky, Chief Executive Officer, The Law Society of Manitoba
• Edward Mapara, Executive Secretary, Law Society of Zimbabwe   
• Ian MacDougall, President, LexisNexis Rule of Law Foundation and Member, Leadership Council of the World Justice Project

 12:30 - 13:15 

Lunch

13:15 - 14:30 

Rule of Law - Part 2

14:30 - 14:45

Refreshment Break

14:45 - 16:00 

Module 2: Law Associations and Government Regulation

Regulated, Regulator, or Both? Navigating the Complex Relationship Between Law Association and Government 

The relationship between law associations and the government is one of the most consequential — and contested — in the legal profession. This session examines that relationship across a range of regulatory models, from integrated bars with broad public mandates to voluntary associations operating alongside government-appointed regulators. We will examine as a topical case study the development of anti-money laundering regulation, how this is evolving in different parts of the world and the role of law societies and bar associations in this area. We will explore in this context the intersection of traditional conduct-based regulation with more forensic and technology-driven approaches to the detection of financial crime. Panelists will share how they are navigating these tensions — defending the independence of the profession while engaging constructively with governments on the issues that matter most to the public and the lawyers we serve.  

Moderator :  Ben Kemp, Chief Executive, The Law Society of Scotland

Panelists: 

• Naoko Yoshino, Secretary General, Japan Federation of Bar Associations
• Brenda Grimes, Executive Director, Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Karsten Lauritzen CEO, Association of Danish Law Firms

.Group Dinner

Louise Taverne Located in the Port-Royal Hotel in the heart of Quebec City's Old Port, Louise Taverne & Wine Bar offers a truly unique experience with its distinctive dual concept. Led by Chef Nikolas Couture and his passionate team, Louise serves gourmet, flavorful, high-quality cuisine at an affordable price. In a warm and festive atmosphere, guests enjoy unparalleled yet relaxed service, alongside one of the finest selections of private import wines, craft cocktails, and beers in Quebec City.

8 Rue Saint-Paul, Québec, QC G1K 3V7