Law Society Appoints Bernard Morrow as Complaints Resolution Commissioner

I am thrilled to share the news of my appointment as the Law Society of Upper Canada's new Complaints Resolution Commissioner.  The Law Society issued a news release on December 13, 2013 announcing the appointment.  I will serve a two year term, commencing April 1, 2014.
 
The Commissioner plays a vital role in the Law Society's complaints resolution process, one similar to an ombudsman.  Independent of the Law Society's professional regulation activities, the Commissioner reviews cases where a complaint against a lawyer or paralegal has been closed by the Law Society, and the complainant is unsatisfied with the result.  The Commissioner reviews the file under dispute to ensure the complaint was handled properly and the outcome was reasonable.  The review process often involves face-to-face meetings with complainants.

Unlike a typical ombudsman, the Commissioner also has the authority to provide alternative dispute resolution services between lawyers or paralegals and their clients for issues that do not require a regulatory response.

I am excited about taking on this important public service role. It's a part-time commitment and a perfect complement to my ongoing private dispute resolution practice.  My work as a mediator and adjudicator has equipped me with the required skills and experience to fulfill the mandate of this challenging position.  I look forward to my continued growth as a dispute resolution professional over the next two years.

Otherwise, it's business as usual and I invite you to consult my on-line calendar when scheduling your next mediation or arbitration.