Bencher Voter Guide
Photo of Pat Heinsen, KC

Pat Heinsen, KC

District
Calgary
Organization
Borden Ladner Gervais LLP
Location
Calgary
Call year
2001

Positions

Position summaries interpret each candidate's statements. They aren't the candidates' own words and haven't been endorsed by them. How positions are assessed

Not stated: The statement does not provide enough topic-specific evidence. It does not mean opposition or lack of relevant experience.

Pathways

Pathways to the Profession

Expresses support for legal training, illustrated by CPLED teaching and university instruction in practical legal subjects. No expansion of law-school capacity or alternative credential is proposed.

Explicit
  • Practical training and qualification
Evidence and limits

Explicit · Stated priority. A relevant principle, priority, issue recognition or reported practice is directly expressed. This does not necessarily mean a specific policy change is proposed.

I have a long history of supporting legal training.  I have taught CPLED courses and assisted instruction at the University of Calgary in subjects including product liability and trial advocacy.

Support for training is expressly stated and connected to entry-related and practical instruction.

What this doesn't show

  • Teaching at an existing institution is not treated as support for a new Alberta law school or expanded post-secondary programs.
Read the full statement
Compare on Pathways

A2J

Access to Justice through Allied Professionals

Not stated.

Compare on A2J

Candidate statement

As published on the candidate's Law Society of Alberta election profile.

I am a litigation partner in the Calgary office of Borden Ladner Gervais LLP.  I began my career with Duncan and Craig (as it then was) in Edmonton.  For the past 20 years my practice has focused on defending professionals (including lawyers).

I seek your support for appointment as a Bencher.  I have put my name forward from a desire to protect the public interest.  I believe my experience and ongoing commitment to community will prepare me well for the role of Bencher.

I have a long history of supporting legal training.  I have taught CPLED courses and assisted instruction at the University of Calgary in subjects including product liability and trial advocacy.  I was part of the team which developed the LSA ongoing legal competencies.  I have presented on several topics to students and lawyers through the Canadian Bar Association and Advocates’ Society and am a member of the CBA “Law Matters” Editorial Committee.

Giving back to the community has always been important to me.  I had the privilege of being elected to two terms as a Board Member with the CBA – Alberta Branch.  I am currently coming to the end of my second year as a Board Member with Calgary Legal Guidance.  This is a wonderful organization which lives its mandate of supporting traditionally underrepresented members of the community.  I am also co-chair of the local BLG pro-bono committee and have been pleased to support a variety of mandates which range from assisting Canadian veterans to supporting Afghan refugees.

As a member of the LSA Practice Review Committee, and the LSA Reinstatement Committee, I have gained experience as a decision maker and learned about the Law Society’s regulatory processes.  This experience and perspective will assist me in the role of Bencher if elected.

An independent bar is important to the public interest.  That we have this privilege should not be taken for granted.  I believe I have a demonstrated commitment to key elements of successful governance through volunteerism in training, community engagement and lawyer support that will help me serve all Albertans well as a Bencher.  I am hopeful you will support my candidacy.

Thank you for your time and engagement with the LSA.