Waterloo Region Law Association upcoming events

Workplace Investigations 2026 (Tuesday, November 10, 2026)

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Workplace Investigations 2026

Tuesday, Nov 10, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

This program qualifies for 3 h 20 min Substantive, 2 h 5 m Professionalism,

35 m EDI Professionalism hours

Co-Chairs:

Lauren Bernardi, Bernardi Human Resource Law LLP

Paul Cassan, Wishart Law Firm LLP

This program features presenters addressing the core principles of a fair and thorough workplace investigation and giving guidance on the best approach at each step. Join us for an informative and interesting day about a growing area of practice.

Get a review of the latest cases on harassment, discrimination, and incivility
Explore what should (and should not) be in an internal procedure
Understand the difference between an intake, a preliminary assessment, and an investigation
Consider the options for restoration

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $182.5 + HST ($23.72) for a total of $206.23 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Tuesday, November 3, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

Six-Minute Debtor-Creditor and Insolvency Lawyer 2026 (Monday, November 16, 2026)

Mon, 16 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Six-Minute Debtor-Creditor and Insolvency Lawyer 2026

Monday, Nov 16, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

This program qualifies for 3 h 30 min Substantive

Co-Chairs:

Joseph Blinick, Bennett Jones LLP

Joshua Sugar, Sugar Law Group

Concise. Insightful. Comprehensive. A Six-Minute program is your fast track to the latest developments in your area of law. Our diverse pool of presenters covers key points in just minutes, offering a variety of perspectives. You receive detailed materials that delve deeper into each topic, along with practical tips and advice you won't find elsewhere. The half-day sessions of our Six-Minute series ensure you're well-prepared for the challenges of a busy legal practice.

Program Agenda

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $135.60 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Monday, Nov 9, 2026, at 9 a.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Monday, Nov 9, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

34th Immigration Law Summit (Tuesday, November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

34th Immigration Law Summit

Tuesday, Nov 17, 2026 & Wednesday, Nov 18, 2026,
(9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) and (9:00 a.m. - 4:30 pm)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer

This program qualifies for 10 h Substantive, 3 h Professionalism hours

Co-Chairs:

Rachel Hepburn Craig, Counsel, National Litigation Sector, Department of Justice Canada

Ravi Jain, C.S., Jain Immigration Law PC

Joo Eun Kim, Staff Lawyer, Refugee Law Office, Legal Aid Ontario

Elijah Lo Re, Counsel, Immigration Law Division, Department of Justice

Since the last federal election, immigration and refugee law and policies have been undergoing tremendous change as the government tries to refocus its priorities and grapple with backlogs of immigration and refugee applications and appeals. This summit convenes lawyers, refugee advocates, adjudicators, and government representatives to examine recent legal developments, ethical considerations, and updates to government programs in this field. Make sure to join your colleagues and our knowledgeable presenters for this seminal education event.

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants and issue a refund.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $401.15 for WRLA members. This price includes registration for both days (webcast only).

Registration for this CPD will close on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**The WRLA must receive your payment on or before Tuesday, November 10, 2026, in order to register you with LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

Menopause at Work: The Conversation the Legal Profession Needs to Have (Tuesday, November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Menopause at Work:
The Conversation the Legal Profession Needs to Have

When: Tuesday, November 17, 2026, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Where: Virtual - Zoom

Menopause and perimenopause affect a significant portion of the workforce, yet they remain among the least discussed workplace issues. Symptoms can affect wellbeing, confidence, communication, and job performance, while stigma and limited understanding often prevent meaningful workplace conversations and support.

Menopause at Work: The Conversation the Legal Profession Needs to Have is a one hour webinar that explores menopause and perimenopause through a workplace and professional lens. Participants will gain a greater understanding of the physical, emotional, and cognitive impacts of menopause, examine how stigma and workplace culture can affect help-seeking and disclosure, and consider the role of psychological safety in fostering inclusive and supportive work environments. The program will also discuss the unique implications for legal professionals and the steps organizations can take to better support and retain experienced talent. With many professionals experiencing menopause and perimenopause during their working years, organizations have an opportunity to foster workplaces that support wellbeing, inclusion, and professional success.

PRESENTER
Kelly Caldwell
Coach
Southren Group

CPD

This program has been approved by the Law Society of Ontario for 30 minutes EDI and 15 minutes Professionalism.

REGISTRATION

Members - Free

Registration required to receive Zoom link.

2026 Judges' Dinner (Thursday, November 19, 2026)

Thu, 19 Nov 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Dress is Business Formal/Semi-Formal

WRLA Members
$150

Students and New Licensees

$100

Non-Members

$200

Please note the Judges' Dinner is now sold out.
A waiting list has been started.

Deadline to register is Tuesday, November 3

Please select your dinner entrée when registering.

Are you registering multiple people from your firm?

Please note the Judges' Dinner is now sold out and a waitlist started. Group registrations are not being accepted at this time.

Please email Craig Logue at clogue@waterloolaw.org with the following information for each registrant: full name, email address, year of call to bar or student status, entrée selection, and any allergies or food restrictions - or send this spreadsheet. Please also indicate the email address to which you would like an invoice sent. Once staff receive all the required information, an electronic invoice will be sent to the email provided.

Do you need a room at the Walper to save a drive home?

Please contact Craig Logue and he will provide you with information about receiving a discounted rate.

Civil Litigation Fundamentals 2026 (Friday, November 20, 2026)

Fri, 20 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Civil Litigation Fundamentals 2026

Friday, November 20, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

This program qualifies for 2 h 10 min Substantive, 1 h 20 m Professionalism hours

Co-Chairs:

Alexandra Urbanski, Stikeman Elliot LLP

Noam Uri, McCarthy Tétrault LLP

The streamlined Fundamentals series offers the best of both worlds: expert insights on essential topics to optimize your practice, paired with engaging live discussions for a deeper understanding of key principles and current issues. Whether you're just starting out or seeking practical guidance on foundational concepts, this program is a must-see.

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $135.60 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Friday, Nov 13, 2026, at 9 a.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Friday, Nov 13, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

Eight-Minute Real Estate Lawyer 2026 (Tuesday, November 24, 2026)

Tue, 24 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Eight-Minute Real Estate Lawyer 2026

Tuesday, Nov 24, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

This program qualifies for 3 h 30 min Substantive, 30 m Professionalism

Co-Chairs:

Simon Crawford, Bennett Jones LLP

Tannis Waugh, C.S.Waugh & Co Professional Corporation

Real estate law doesn’t stand still—and neither should your practice. The Eight‑Minute program brings you a timely update on the legal, procedural, and professional issues shaping real estate today. Designed for busy practitioners, this annual program features focused eight‑minute presentations from experienced speakers who cut straight to what you need to know for case law, key developments, emerging risks, and practical insights. The Eight-Minute Real Estate Lawyer 2026 delivers what you need to stay current without slowing you down.

Program Agenda

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $120.00 + HST ($15.60) for a total of $135.60 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Tuesday, Nov 17, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

Data Surveillance in the Legal Information Ecosystem (Tuesday, November 24, 2026)

Tue, 24 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Data Surveillance in the Legal Information Ecosystem

When: Tuesday, November 24, 2026 at 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Where: Virtual - Zoom

What do the information platforms lawyers rely on have to do with the growing business of surveillance, and what might that mean for confidentiality, professional ethics, and risk management?

From mobile phone location tracking and Google Maps to automated licence plate readers, everyday technologies generate data that can be collected, combined, and commercialized. Behind this activity lies the often-opaque data brokerage industry. For lawyers, its connections to familiar legal research services raise important questions. The parent companies of Westlaw and LexisNexis also operate data brokerage businesses with extensive information holdings and controversial contracts with government and law enforcement agencies, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

This session examines the implications of data brokerage for Canadian legal practice. It explores potential risks to client confidentiality, the ethical questions surrounding subscription spending, and the challenges posed by gaps in Canadian privacy protections and cross-border data flows. It also considers broader concerns about the power of data brokers to shape access to information and expand state surveillance, concerns that have drawn criticism from employees, academics, and immigration rights advocates.

PRESENTER

Lisa Levesque, Law Librarian, Lincoln Alexander School of Law

CPD

This program contains 20 minutes of Professionalism content.

REGISTRATION

Members - Free
Non-Members - $50.00 (includes HST)

Registration required to receive Zoom link.

Taxation Issues for Real Estate Lawyers 2026 (Tuesday, November 24, 2026)

Tue, 24 Nov 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Taxation Issues for Real Estate Lawyers 2026

Tuesday, Nov 24, 2026 (2:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

TBD

Co-Chairs:

Ron Choudhury, KPMG Law LLP

Kevin Yip, Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP

Tax issues can make or break a real estate transaction, particularly in today’s market where deal structures, financing, and client profiles are evolving quickly. You want to be ready for all of that. Our presenters walk you through key legislative and administrative developments while they highlight common red flags. Giving you real-world scenarios, they provide you with a roadmap on tax, so that you know what to address yourself and when to bring in another expert for your purchase and sale of real property deals.

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $120.00 + HST ($15.60) for a total of $135.60 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Tuesday, Nov 17, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

Elder Law Primer (Tuesday, December 01, 2026)

Tue, 01 Dec 2026 14:00:00 GMT

ELDER lAW pRIMER 2026

Tuesday, December 1, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

This program qualifies for 3 h 30 min Substantive, 30 m Professionalism

Co-Chairs:

Alyssa Lane, Advocacy Centre for the Elderly

Amy MacAlpine, C.S., TEP, Hummingbird Lawyers LLP

As the average age of Canadians increases, the importance of the law and its impact on our older population comes to the fore. This program provides an overview of legal frameworks, practical considerations, and professional challenges that arise when doing legal work for older adults. Our speakers provide guidance on capacity and consent, decision‑making supports, abuse and financial exploitation, and substitute decision-making. This primer equips you with foundational knowledge to engage effectively and compassionately in this nuanced area of law.

Explore emerging issues in financial abuse of older adults and the legal tools available to prevent harm
Gain an understanding of the Consent and Capacity Board and how it resolves capacity, consent, and substitute decision-making matters
Review common legal issues in long-term care homes and their implications for residents, families, and advisors

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $120.00 + HST ($15.60) for a total of $135.60 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Tuesday, Nov 24, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Tuesday, Nov 24, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

Corporate Commercial Case Law - The Year in Review 2026 (Wednesday, December 02, 2026)

Wed, 02 Dec 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Corporate Commercial Case Law - The Year in Review 2026

Wednesday, December 2, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

This program qualifies for 3 h Substantive hours

Co-Chairs:

Carlie Fox, Goodmans LLP
Marco Falco, Torkin Manes LLP

This focused, practice‑oriented program provides business lawyers with a clear overview of the most significant corporate and commercial decisions from the past year. The program distills complex judgments into clear summaries and actionable takeaways that matter in transactional and advisory contexts. Speakers highlight key themes, emerging trends, and risk implications arising from recent case law across core areas of corporate and commercial practice. Efficient and insight-driven, this annual update equips you with the latest judicial guidance to support your day-to-day work as a business law practitioner.

Stay current on contractual interpretation issues for your drafting, negotiating, and advisory work
Examine recent penalty clause decisions and what they mean for solicitors who advise on risk allocation and contract enforcement
Hear an engaging fireside chat with an Ontario Court of Appeal judge on topics relevant to commercial litigators and solicitors

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $120.00 + HST ($15.60) for a total of $135.60 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Wednesday, Nov 25, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Wednesday, Nov 25, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

Civil Appeals - The Year in Review 2026 (Thursday, December 03, 2026)

Thu, 03 Dec 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Civil Appeals - The Year in Review 2026

Thursday, December 3, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–12:15 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

This program qualifies for 2 h 30 m Substantive, 30 m Professionalism hours

Co-Chairs:

Denise Cooney, Paliare Roland Rosenberg Rothstein LLP

Alicja Puchta, Torys LLP

Bring your year to a close with an expert-driven review of the civil appeal decisions that defined 2026. Our panel examines the most significant rulings from Ontario’s appellate courts, unpacking their implications for litigators and civil practitioners alike. Expect focused analysis, practical insights, and a clear view of the trends shaping appeals in the year ahead.

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $120.00 + HST ($15.60) for a total of $135.60 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Thursday, Nov 26, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Thursday, Nov 26, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

Eight-Minute Family Law Lawyer 2026 (Friday, December 04, 2026)

Fri, 04 Dec 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Eight-Minute Family Law Lawyer 2026

Friday, December 4, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

This program qualifies for 3 h 20 min Substantive, 40 m Professionalism hours

Co-Chairs:

Fareen Jamal, Jamal Family Law Professional Corporation

Michael Kleinman, Kleinman Family Law

Concise. Insightful. Comprehensive. An Eight-Minute program is your fast track to the latest developments in your area of law. Our diverse pool of presenters covers key points in just minutes, offering a variety of perspectives. You receive detailed materials that delve deeper into each topic, along with practical tips and advice you won't find elsewhere. The half-day sessions of our Eight-Minute series ensure you're well-prepared for the challenges of a busy legal practice.

Understand how to determine the value cryptocurrency
Hear about marriage contract dos and don'ts
Get an update on this year's important case law

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $135.60 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Friday, Nov 27, 2026, at 9 a.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Friday, Nov 27, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

Impaired Driving 2026 (Saturday, December 05, 2026)

Sat, 05 Dec 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Impaired Driving 2026

Saturday, December 5, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

This program qualifies for 3 h 30 min Substantive hours

Co-Chairs:

Jon Fuller, Assistant Crown Attorney, Ottawa-Carleton Crown Attorney's Office, Ministry of the Attorney General

Karen Jokinen, C.S., Jokinen Law Professional Corporation

Every year, impaired driving charges rise significantly over the holiday period. Whether you practise as defence counsel or appear as a Crown prosecutor, it is essential to keep current with evolving issues related to impairment by alcohol and drugs. Our panels—featuring experienced prosecutors, defence lawyers, judges, and forensic experts—provide timely updates on recent developments in case law, legislation, and enforcement in this continually developing area of criminal law. This program prepares you to address these issues in your work, so please consider joining us for these informative sessions.

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $135.60 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Friday, Nov 27, 2026, at 9 a.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Friday, Nov 27, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy

Therapy Dogs in the WRLA Lounge (Tuesday, December 08, 2026)

Tue, 08 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

THERAPY DOGS IN THE WRLA LOUNGE

85 Frederick Street, Kitchener

Need a pick-me-up? Our therapy dog friends from
St. John's Ambulance will be joining us in the WRLA Lounge
on the second Tuesday of every month.

No registration is required.

Mark your calendar for these very important visitors.

Tuesday, December 8 from 1:00-2:00 PM

Your furry new friends will be there
to greet you and help you de-stress!

15th Human Rights Summit (Thursday, December 10, 2026)

Thu, 10 Dec 2026 14:00:00 GMT

15th Human Rights Summit

Thursday, December 10, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.)

View this webcast program from your home or office computer.

This program qualifies for 5 h Substantive, 1 h Professionalism hours

Co-Chairs:

Shana French, Littler LLP
Rani Khan, Counsel & Legal Manager, Human Rights Legal Support Centre

Whether you work as in-house counsel, a paralegal, or practise civil litigation, our annual Human Rights Summit offers an invaluable opportunity to stay informed about key developments in human rights law as it applies to employment and services provided to the public. Our knowledgeable panelists provide essential legislative updates and practical analysis of emerging case law trends. Join us for this timely and engaging year‑end program.

Please note that 11+ participants are required to secure the 50% off discount. The WRLA will notify participants if registration does not reach 11 participants.

If 11 people register, the cost of the event will be $182.50 + HST ($23.72) for a total of $206.23 for WRLA members.

Registration for this CPD will close on Thursday, December 3, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. We cannot accept registrations after this time.

**We must receive your payment on or before Thursday, December 3, 2026, in order to register you with the LSO for this CPD.**

WRLA Cancellation Policy