Canadian Lawyer

These stories, while diverse in subject, converge on a common point: the importance of clarity, connection, and care in a rapidly shifting profession I n this issue, we spotlight a legal profession at the intersection of transformation and tension – where technology, mental health, workplace culture, and equity are reshaping how lawyers practise, lead, and live. Our family law legal report (p. 30) reveals how legal tech is adding much- needed structure to a practice area long marked by emotional volatility and logis- tical complexity. From streamlined evidence collection to moderated co-parenting apps, lawyers are leveraging innovation to ease conflict and increase efficiency – though, as several experts point out, no app can eliminate the human intensity that often accompanies these disputes. In our employment law legal report (p. 53), we examine the legal fallout from return-to-office mandates and fully remote workforces. Constructive dismissal claims, accommodation risks, tax and jurisdictional headaches – it's clear that flex- ible work brings not just freedom but significant liability. Employers must now craft hybrid strategies that are not only legally sound but also culturally sustainable. The emotional toll of legal work remains a thread throughout. Our profile of Gowling WLG's Michael Herman (p. 6) is a moving account of burnout, depres- sion, and the courage it takes to speak up. His story reminds us that policies alone don't create supportive workplaces – people do. While many firms continue to grapple with the backlash against DEI initiatives, our Back Page opinion (p. 64) argues that inclusion isn't a political checkbox but a business imperative. Connecting DEI to measurable outcomes – like client reten- tion or practice-area growth – is what will sustain it through political headwinds. These stories, while diverse in subject, converge on a common point: the importance of clarity, connection, and care in a rapidly shifting profession. That's why we're inviting you to go beyond the page and join the conversation in person at the Canadian Legal Summit, coming to Toronto on October 9. Together, we'll explore how to harness technology wisely, support each other meaningfully, and build legal workplaces where everyone can thrive. Because in a time of virtual everything, coming together still matters. Visit events.canadianlawyermag.com/canadian-legal-summit for more information on the Canadian Legal Summit. Tim Wilbur, managing editor www.canadianlawyermag.com 1 EDITOR'S DESK UPFRONT www.canadianlawyermag.com From virtual change to in-person connection ISSUE 49.01 | APRIL 2025 Canadian Lawyer is published 2 times a year by KM Business Information Canada Ltd. KEY MEDIA and the KEY MEDIA logo are used under licence by KM Business Information Canada Ltd. CANADIAN LAWYER is a trademark of KM Business Information Canada Ltd. All rights reserved. Contents may not be reprinted without written permission. The opinions expressed in articles are not necessarily those of the publisher. Information presented is compiled from sources believed to be accurate; however, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Canadian Lawyer disclaims any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or currency of the contents of this publication and disclaims all liability in respect of the results of any action taken or not taken in reliance upon information in this publication. 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