A two-part webinar series developed by Associate Dean (Research & Graduate studies) Laverne Jacobs and Tribunal Watch Ontario will consider how adjudicative tribunals and administrative justice can be improved on the ground.
The series will see experts in the field of law and stakeholders from different key perspectives, including that of diversity and inclusion.
“The administrative justice system determines many of the matters that touch our everyday lives,” says Dr. Jacobs. “Examples include the landlord and tenant board, the human rights tribunal, the Workers’ Safety and Insurance and Appeal Tribunal, and many other tribunals across the province.”
Dr. Jacobs says many more people will find themselves before an administrative tribunal than in front of a court. And, while systemic problems have been noted, there has not been enough robust analysis of administrative justice reform.
“This webinar series presents an opportunity for a discussion of how we can improve the administrative justice system,” she says. “It aims to be an inclusive discussion that in the perspectives of tribunal users and their representatives, members of the tribunal decision-making community, legal commentators, scholars, and those who focus on diversity and access to justice in the administrative justice realm.”
Dr. Jacobs, a scholar of both administrative law and accessibility, diversity, and inclusion, says she is excited to be partnering with Tribunal Watch Ontario on the project.
The first webinar — to focus on tribunal independence and impartiality — will host experts from Windsor Law, Community Legal Aid, University of Ottawa Faculty of Law, and tribunals, while the second will discuss tribunal competence and expertise with experts from the Alberta Human Rights Commission, Osgoode Hall Law School, University of Ottawa Faculty of Law, Windsor Law, and Community Legal Aid.
These virtual events are free and open to the public, but attendees are asked to register in advance:
