ADR News & Announcements

Whether you are a mediator or an adjudicator, fairness is a very important characteristic to maintain. But what exactly does this entail?

In this presentation, our speaker Moin A. Yahya will suggest some simple rules to follow when mediating or adjudicating disputes between various parties. These include formalistic legal rules, such as not being biased, giving proper notice to each side, and allowing each side to present and be heard as well as informal rules that will assist in getting the buy-in from each of the parties involved.

Our Speaker: Moin A. Yahya

Moin A. Yahya is a Professor of Law at the University of Alberta. He is a current member of the Alberta Human Rights Commission and a past member of the Alberta Utilities Commission. He has taught Administrative Law, Criminal Law, and Constitutional Law among other courses.

This recording is from our April 14, 2021 ADR Webinar:

If you are considering a separation or divorce or you've been through one, you might be on the lookout for resources. 

Divorce Magazine is published annually and is a guide to help those going through a divorce or separation with less dis-ease. They also hold a monthly Divorce Resource Group.

In the latest issue of Divorce Magazine, our own staff member Don Schapira wrote an article about Alternate Endings, which you can read below:

Alternative Endings - Which Will You Choose?

The concept of the alternate ending in Hollywood movies has always fascinated us. It suggests that a story we may have grown up with and loved could have had a completely different resolution, moral or emotional resonance. This reflects a human need to reflect on our own lives, stories, and possible mistakes. It helps us ponder what possible outcomes there could have been, had one scene in our own lives, been just a little bit different. 

For those old enough to remember, one of the most famous examples of the alternate ending was the movie ‘Clue’. This Tim Curry cult classic filmed three alternate endings, each with a different murderer, or murderers, and then made the unique decision to screen these different endings at different theatres. This resulted in an array of views, feelings and overall experiences for the same movie, depending on which ending was viewed. 

By the time the movie made its video release on Beta-max (yes, it’s THAT old), the producers had made the decision to compile all three endings onto the same release. Once you think the movie ends, a screen displays ‘That’s how it could have happened. But how about this?’ and then plays possible ending two, and then plays the final ending after flashing a ‘But here’s what really happened’ sign. For the first 80 minutes of a 95-minute movie, every aspect is the same. The same introduction, plot, jokes and conflict. It then delivers three very distinct, yet equally plausible, resolutions to the building conflict. 

While the original theatrical run of the movie was a disappointing sub-$15 million run, the video release created a beloved cult classic that stands the test of time. The video version of the movie still resonates with us vividly for how it reflects our own desires to have a redo, or alternate ending, at some point in our lives. 

We often look at our own relationships and consider these alternate endings, whether it be about a first date, a marriage, or even ultimately, a divorce. What if I had responded with A instead of B? What if they didn’t do C? While the ‘What if?’ can sometimes keep us up late into the night, the point of this line of thinking is for you to now consider your future alternate ending. 

If divorce can be a painful ending, it can otherwise offer a new beginning. If it can be high conflict, it can otherwise be amicable. If it can be expensive and time consuming, it can otherwise be affordable and timely. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) services, especially mediation, offer these alternate endings to resolve your own situation – collaborative approaches that you can choose at the beginning of your journey, and then work your way forward to a better outcome – especially when there are children involved. 

Do your research, ask the right questions, and access the many ADR resources available to you. You can choose the resolution that will suit you better, and offer a better future. You won’t need any other ending to your story than the considered one you chose.

Be Sure to:

• Learn about different styles of ADR

• Access our online Directory of Mediators, Arbitrators, and ADR Specialists

• Look for a professional designation

• Contact us with any questions

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Mediator or Arbitrator

• Do you have a professional designation?

• What is your training?

• What is your experience in this area?

• What style of ADR do you use?

• Are you a member of a professional organization?

• Do you follow a code of ethics?

• What recourse do I have if I am unhappy with the service I receive? 

• Do you carry professional liability insurance?

Divorce Symposium

Another thing you can do is connect to the Divorce Resource Group or attend the upcoming Divorce Symposium, hosted by Divorce Magazine:

Divorce is common, but every couple and family is unique.

It’s important for those considering a separation or divorce to know they’re not alone, so we’ve gathered professionals together for a day of education and support.

The Divorce Symposium will provide a full day of learning from professionals who will answer questions pertaining to family matters, legal issues, financial planning, as well as health topics.

This symposium is where people from all backgrounds learn about and discuss the variety of supports available to individuals and families facing one of the biggest life changes they will experience.

You can find more information about the Divorce Symposium on their website. You can also read the full issue of Divorce Magazine.

A panel discussion regarding the changes to the Divorce Act, what it means to ADR, to families and you.

Panelists:
Diana Lowe, QC
Sharon Crooks, President AFMS
Hon. Justice Andrea Moen (frmr) 

Diana Lowe, QC is a lawyer with 35 years of experience which includes legal practice, research and reform of the civil and family justice systems in Canada, and most recently as Executive Counsel to the Chief Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta. Diana recently retired from the Court and established a consulting practice - “Re-imagining Justice”. 

The Honourable Andrea Moen frequently observed high conflict in her courtroom between parents in their fights over their children. She asked the question of what happens to the brains of those children when they are exposed to the conflict of their parents. As a consequence of her research, the Court was a founder of the Reforming Family Justice System initiative. 

Sharon J. Crooks, LLM, has been a lawyer for 34 years, a mediator for 20 plus years, and an arbitrator for 6 years with a Chartered Arbitrator [C-Arb] designation. She has been the managing partner of Rowanoak Law Office LLP since 2002. Sharon has extensive training and experience in family, child protection and children’s law, as well as in mediation/arbitration.

We could all use a little help navigating these challenging times and situations more effectively. Through this webinar you will guided to a broader and deeper understanding of your experiences during this time of transition. Using a mindfulness lens, you will enhance the quality of your being while you are doing your doing. 

Cinim is an integrative health and research institute and a registered charity. They improve the mental health and wellbeing of individuals, families and communities through the development and delivery of safe, effective, evidence-based programs.

Cinim presenter Allan Donsky has been a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist for 25 years. He is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Calgary and Adjunct Professor in the Department of Child Studies and Social work, Mount Royal University. He facilitates Mindfulness workshops in schools, Universities, Conferences and the business world. Allan uses a Mindful approach to navigate the human experience integrating Mind, Heart, Spirit and Soul. This brings us closer to the quality life we are looking for.

This recording is from our February 25, 2021 webinar Coming Alive in the COVID World

Please share this job posting with your networks!

Job Posting
Education Admin Assistant

Deadline to apply is February 22, 2021

Position Description

The ADR Institute of Alberta (ADRIA) is a professional membership association with 9 full-time and part-time employees. The Education Assistant is often the first point of contact for students and potential students, as well as for our coaches and instructors. The Education Assistant is responsible for ensuring students, coaches, and instructors have what they need to successfully participate in courses. The Education Assistant communicates with students in a timely and empathic manner, ensuring quality of student feedback and student experience. The Education Assistant advises students in next steps and ensures that students are supported in their learning journey.

The Work Parameters

This is a 30-35 hour/week position with flexibility in working and contractual arrangements to suit both the organization and the successful candidate. The salary range is $20-24 per hour commensurate with experience. The position requires some flexibility as the successful candidate will be required to provide occasional after-hours and/or extra-hours support for special events, periods of high demand or activity, and vacation coverage for team members. The organization itself is also flexible in terms of accommodating its employees’ personal and professional pursuits. This position is based in Edmonton. Although there is opportunity to work from home, some work can only be completed at our Edmonton office.

Key Skills & Responsibilities

Administrative Skills

• Strong oral and written communication skills, including a willingness and ability to understand and communicate complex ideas and processes
• Excellent time-management and problem solving skills
• Ability to be responsive and timely as well as follow through with tasks, projects, students, coaches, and instructors over the course of many months
• Organization skills, respect for timelines and ability to think multiple steps ahead
• Problem solving, flexibility, and ability to pivot priorities based on changing needs
• Ability to manage multiple interconnected tasks over short and long term
• Very detail oriented, but able to see the big picture

Interpersonal Skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills and professionalism
• Ability to deal with strong emotions
• The ability to work independently, but also as an integral part of an effective team;
• Creativity and initiative, paired with a willingness to embrace new ideas or programs;
• Patience, paired with a sincere desire to work collaboratively with or in support of others;
• Critical thinking and good judgement, paired with effective decision-making skills;

 

Technical Skills

• Strong and up-to-date technological capabilities (such as expert use of Microsoft Office suite and Google Apps, web-based collaborative tools, web-page management/editing, excellent email etiquette)
• Ability to learn new technologies
• Strong database and project management capabilities
• Understanding of workflow optimization processes
• Advanced knowledge of Zoom features

Knowledge

• Knowledge of ADR processes an asset
• Experience in adult education an asset

 

Education & Training

• Minimum high school diploma or equivalent plus 5 years of experience
• Administrative Assistant or similar training an asset
• Candidates with ADR knowledge and demonstrated administrative skills will be considered first

 

Apply

• Applications must include a cover letter and resume/CV. Partial applications will not be reviewed.
• Applicants who pass first round will be sent a series of questions which will determine suitability for an interview.
• Applications will be reviewed as received, and interviews may be conducted before the application deadline.

Apply by sending a cover letter and your resume/CV to education@adralberta.com 

Closing Date: February 22, 2021

Ideal Start Date: March 1, 2021

Graham Singh offers his many years of personal experience with the re-purposing of historic churches and urban architecture into shared use community and business hubs. In tackling such projects, he has encountered many conflict situations - often deeply entrenched and linked to identity. Can you mix congregations and circus performers? Can a church building host different faiths, each seeking their own spiritual accommodations? Where do spiritual, business and cultures interests collide, and what lessons can we learn from the often difficult conversations that ensue. Graham offers some unique insights into the hard conversations that must be embraced if an lasting accommodation is to be reached, and the lessons learned here can be applied in many settings.

In these unprecedented times when nothing is as it once was, it may be hard to remember what happiness feels like.

Our brains are wired to contemplate the worst-case scenarios and watching the news or Covid-19 update can reinforce this impending sense of doom.

We can learn ways to mourn what was and cannot be again, and find a path to a different kind of happy. It can be hard to find joy, to notice what makes us feel good and grounded and safe. 

Check out the recording below from our latest luncheon to help find some moments of light amid the darkness.

Presenter: Tara Livingston

Tara Livingston is a professional mediator, relationship coach and enthusiastic public speaker. A retired Anglican Priest, she earned her master’s degree in divinity from Trinity College at the University of Toronto with a focus on pastoral counseling, grief care and inter-faith dialogue. In addition to divorce mediation, she offers marriage preparation classes for couples about to embark on a new life journey. Tara is committed to guiding couples and families toward maintaining healthy relationships at their beginning, middle and end. As a parent of two resilient young men, she has a special passion for helping children to thrive during and after challenging times. 

As a presenter, Tara uses stories from her considerable professional and personal experience and legendary humour to inspire audiences of all kinds.

Here is the recording from December 16, 2020:

On December 21, 2020 Graham Singh of Trinity Centres Foundation (TCF) joined the Canadian Club of Edmonton to discuss re-purposing historic churches and cherished urban architecture for a brighter future as community & cultural hubs. Please see the recording below as Graham and Paul Conway discuss:

Social purpose real estate: a post-COVID future for Canada

Theatres, museums, schools, hospitals, parks and churches: hit hard by COVID-19 and the awkward story no one talks about. As shocks flow through our retail, commercial and residential sectors, what about those physical places whose ownership is truly in common? What plans are being made across Canada's social and charitable sector for a recovery? How will we navigate these properties and their potential for social impact?  What signs of hope might Edmonton, Calgary & Alberta look for as we chart a pathway beyond COVID-19?

Graham Singh is a graduate of the London School of Economics, Anglican Church minister, researcher and founding CEO of the Trinity Centres Foundation (TCF), a new national charity aimed at giving a renewed community vocation to Canada's heritage church properties. A native of Guelph, Singh now lives in Montreal with his wife Céline and 3 children where he also leads one of that city's oldest yet most widely shared heritage church buildings (St Jax). TCF delivers strategic consulting support to dozens of land-owning congregations across Canada, including Edmonton's McDougall United Church and Calgary's Bow Valley Christian Church. Published across Canada, Singh is a thought leader on the area of Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG or impact investment), a growing area of focus for Canada's philanthropic foundations and institutional investors alike.

As you may remember, our June Luncheon featured Ry Moran, founding Director of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation in Winnipeg

On November 25, 2020, the Canadian Club of Edmonton hosted Ry Moran, now inaugural Associate University Librarian (Reconciliation) at the University of Victoria for an engaging and informative presentation on the work of Truth & Reconciliation broadly underway across the country.

Watch the recording below to learn from Ry as he shares his extensive first-hand experience on the transformative steps underway in Canada, including how to confront and act upon some of the most troubling elements of our collective history together.

Ry Moran is Canada’s inaugural Associate University Librarian (Reconciliation) at the University of Victoria. Ry’s role within UVic Libraries’ focuses on building and sustaining relationships to introduce Indigenous approaches and knowledge into the daily work of the Libraries and more broadly across the campus community. In so doing, Ry plays an active role in advancing UVic’s strategic goal of being a globally recognized leader in areas of reconciliation.

Ry came to this position from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) hosted by the University of Manitoba. As the founding director, Ry guided the creation of the NCTR from its inception. Along the way, Ry contributed to major national initiatives such as the creation of the National Student Memorial Register, designation of multiple residential schools as national historical sites, development and launch of the Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada, and a major educational broadcast which reached over three million Canadians.

Prior to the NCTR, Ry served with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC). On the TRC’s behalf, he facilitated the gathering of nearly 7,000 video/audio-recorded statements of former residential school students and millions of pages archival records.

For our webinar luncheon on November 19, 2020, we hosted Naval Captain Bruce King. Below is the recording from that event.

Naval Captain Bruce King speaks about the laws of armed conflict relating to reconciliation, mediation and war. International law encourages the resolution of disputes between countries. Institutions like the United Nations and International Committee of the Red Cross are dedicated to identifying friction between countries and promoting peaceful resolution of disputes. Where resolution is not possible, the possibility of armed conflict looms. He focuses on the road to war and the reconciliation processes which prevent war.

A native of Edmonton Alberta, Bruce graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws in 1989. In 1990, he was called to the Alberta Bar and for the next 18 years worked as a civil litigator appearing in all levels of Courts in Alberta, the Federal Court, Federal Court of Appeal and Tax Court of Canada.

In 1999, Bruce joined the Canadian Armed Forces as a reservist with the Office of the Judge Advocate General. He was deployed on 4 domestic operations including as the legal advisor to the army at the G-8 Kananaskis conference and Vancouver Olympics. In 2010, he deployed to Afghanistan with JTF2 and 427 Special Operations Aviation Squadron. In 2012,  Bruce worked at National Defense Headquarters in Ottawa advising the commanders of the Military Police, Air Force, Navy and CAF Transition Unit. In 2017, he was promoted to his current rank of Naval Captain (Colonel equivalent) and appointed Deputy Judge Advocate General (Reserves).

Since 2012, Capt(N) has also been a sessional instructor at the Faculty of Law, University of Alberta, where he teaches Military Law.  In 2014, he joined the Veterans Affairs leading a team of lawyers and support staff representing veterans and RCMP members before the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.