WARDS LEGAL MATTERS

Episode 10 - When Couples with Kids Uncouple

It comes with a whole lot of emotion – from anger to sorrow to despair. And when there are children in the equation of a looming separation, it takes all those painful feelings to another level.
So, ensuring there’s a sound plan post separation is paramount. For the parents, but especially for the children.
Law clerk Sam Drebit explains why it’s important that a legal expert help to lay out that co-parenting plan, which may include everything from dentist appointments to introducing new partners.
It’s equally important for those uncoupling parents to first learn how to best manage the inevitable roller coaster of emotions before they sit down to finalize the legal piece of their separation. Here, too, it’s imperative to consult an expert – like Lisa Greci, a registered clinical social worker who offers some sound advice for parents entering this life transition.
And Maria Francis, Director of First Impressions with Wards Lawyers, tells us why she chose to live in Kawartha Lakes.
Music for the show written and performed by Stella Panacci and Sean Jamieson.

Episode 10 - Trailer

Episode 9 – All aboard!

We like to think of our law firm as a sturdy and reliable ship that can navigate even the roughest waters, charting a sound path for our clients and their legal needs.
We can’t achieve this, of course, without a great crew. And that requires careful recruitment of people with that “all hands on deck, always” attitude.
In this episode, we introduce you to two of our newest crew members, lawyers Golda Greenspoon and Justin Broomfield.
Over coffee – at Lindsay’s coolest coffee spot, Kindred Coffee Bar - Golda and Justin tell host Denis Grignon of the path they charted to a career in law and why their ultimate destination was with Wards Lawyers.
And senior family law clerk Gabrielle Fisher tells us why she long ago chose Kawartha Lakes to be her home.
Music for our show provided by Sean Jamieson and Stella Panacci.  

Episode 9 - Trailer

Episode 8 – Cell Surf Check Out

It’s official. Phones are finally banned in classrooms!
Sort of...except when....uh...
Indeed, when the Ontario Ministry of Education laid out new rules about the hand-held digital distractions for this school year, the news was met with equal parts relief and skepticism. And a whole lot of confusion.
How will it be enforced, legally, by teachers and administrators? What rights can students and parents exercise?
Lawyers Alex McLeod and Ryan O’Neill will explain how the law might – and can – affect this classroom digital dilemma.
Jack Veitch of the Canadian Mental Health Association tells us how a high powered, high income job – like a career in law – can still come with some high stress. (Like the kind described by former lawyer Jason Ward in Episode 7). And how people in those careers can – and should – benefit from the same mental health supports that are available to everyone.
Music for our show is provided by Stella Panacci and Sean Jamieson.

Episode 8 - Trailer

Episode 7 - Jason's Journey Part 2

In this special episode, we return to Jason Ward’s kitchen table, more than a year and a half after the co-owner of the area’s most successful law firm opened up about his decision to leave a life of law – and focus on his recovery from addiction. Where is Jason now in that journey? What has he learned about how to manage his own mental health? What wisdom – and warning - can he impart for others in a high-pressure career, like the legal profession?
Jason shares how his story has evolved – and is still evolving – in his usual honest, candid and thoughtful manner.
We also welcome a new member to our theme music team in this episode: Singer-songwriter - and Kawartha Lakes neighbour! - Stella Panacci.

Episode 7 - Trailer

Episode 6 - Stalking’s legal – and emotional – toll

If they tell you they’re being stalked, believe them.
That’s the message from someone who works for a local social agency that cares for women in crisis, as well as a criminal lawyer whose files include cases of stalking. But it can be a complex issue – especially with how the legal system can act on it.
Alisha Fisher, community services manager with Women’s Resources, describes how stalking affects its victims – emotionally, financially and in terms of their own safety.
Lawyer Alex McLeod explains how the legal system works to protect those victims, and sets boundaries for those accused of it.
And lawyer Karissa Ward tells us why Wards Lawyers lends much support to Women’s Resources.
This episode deals with sensitive subject matter. Please take care when listening.
Theme music by Sean Jamieson.

Episode 5 – All right, students. Pencils (and phones) down!

In this special episode, we take our show on the road for a live recording at IE Weldon Secondary School in Lindsay. And the verdict is in: students in Mr Bergman’s Grade 12 law class came very well-prepared with a court room full of great questions for our panel of legal experts. Sam Drebit, Alex McLeod, Tory Smith, Hamid Asrar and Audrey Gregory addressed everything from lot severances and separation agreements, to jury selection and “the strangest case you’ve ever handled.” 
Theme music provided by Lindsay singer-songwriter, Sean Jamieson.