This past year the number of challenges faced by my little firm and by me personally have been astounding.

Every member of my staff has faced unexpected health complications. Our work-load has exploded as we now do hearings across the province, virtually. In the meanwhile staffing changes have meant a big reorganization in how we do things, including no real need for much of a physical office any more. The final straw on all this of course was the mainly anonymous online harassment I’ve endured for more than a year that recently got more direct and even more toxic. That’s for starters. We survived & thrived anyway, through the heroic efforts of my entire team and superhuman strength, frankly, from me.

So it is TIME FOR A BREAK!

I have great staff who will lead the charge during this summer, while I try my level best to focus on long-term goals and healing from the last year of significant challenges that have done a number on my physical and mental health.

The exciting news is that I am already hard at work on a new book that will change the landscape for a particular population of those interested in mental health law. An innovative, bold new project, which will be completed in a few weeks and available in the New Year. Three new books are coming out in the next six months. I have also taken on a new role as Co-Director of an important course on Mental Health Law as part of an LLM course through Osgoode PD. That’s the stuff I live for and am super eager to sink my teeth into as I carve out some “me time!”

One door closes, a window opens up – I am looking forward to returning in the fall, just in time for my big party to celebrate the 30th anniversary of my call to the Ontario Bar with friends, family and cherished colleagues – you know who you are.

An era that is now (partly) past – of course there is continuity as well as some staff stay with us:

Looking forward to seeing everyone again soon – with a new team, and renewed energy & optimism!