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societies? Mack's views of self-regulation are shared by other law society offi cials. Malcolm Heins, CEO of the Law Society of Upper Canada, agrees that the task of running the profession is best left to law- yers. He suggests that doing so not only ensures an appropriate level of exper- tise but also facilitates access. "We also have a responsibility for access to justice which is set out in the Law Society Act. We're involved in various initiatives to educate the public and to consult with government and the courts about vari- ous projects to help the public access the justice system." In the eyes of its proponents, the self- regulated model furnishes the best of all worlds. While a cynic might be quick to note that those touting the system are also its gatekeepers, strong arguments for professional independence also come from more disinterested quarters. Currently vice provost at the University of British Columbia, Wes Pue is a law professor and author of "Death Squads and 'Directions over Lunch,'" a recent paper that explores the signifi cance of an independent bar. While his current position does not permit him to speak on the record, Pue's paper makes clear that he believes self-regulation carries an importance that extends far beyond administrative expertise. Like Mack, Pue holds that indepen- dence from the state is integral to law- yers' ability to act as effective advocates. www. C ANADIAN Law ye rmag.com JANU AR Y 2009 31 ILLUSTRATION: KEN DEWAR