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In this episode, Claire-Xi Song and Jiahong Huang speak with Jayde Wood, an IP partner, Patent Agent, and Trademark Agent at Gowling WLG.Jayde shares the story of her journey into IP law and what drew her to this exciting sector. She discusses possible considerations for moving from a boutique firm to a full-service firm in this field, including needing to grow and adapt to her clients' present IP needs. Jayde then dives into a discussion on the hot topic of generative AI and ways that it can be used at various stages of the IP workflow. Next, Jayde reflects on her experience as an Asian woman in a leadership role and her aspirations towards the future of the legal industry. Finally, Jayde discusses the importance of networking for young lawyers and how professional associations like FACL can play a key role in this process. Editors: Claire Song and Baron Hsueh

In this episode, Xue Zhang and Baron Hsueh speak with Karen Claus, an accomplished technology lawyer and principal of Karen Claus Law Corporation. Our conversation centres on Karen’s storied legal career - having worked as a litigator and now a solicitor, and having gained experience in private practice, in-house, and now as a solo practitioner. Karen shares the processes and approaches she took when transitioning between roles and specialties, and how she ultimately found her affinity in technology law. Finally, she reflects on the importance of staying true to your identity and values throughout your legal career, and how this approach has guided her in pursuing the best opportunities at every stage of her journey. Editors: Rosie Hsueh and Xue Zhang

This episode is an edited live recording of the FACL BC event moderated by Char Sandher, the Director & Group Lead of Healthcare & Professional Banking for Western Canada at Scotiabank, on April 2, 2025. In this episode, we speak with Alex Wilson, George Zhang, and Sean Akeroyd (MNP) who are experienced with financial solutions and strategies, to arm lawyers and law students with the confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions for their financial plans and careers. We explored debt management strategies and practice considerations, as well as the importance and key aspects of a holistic financial plan. The goal of this event is to assist lawyers in their planning and decision-making process, arming them with tools, action items and financial confidence so they can focus on their clients and growing their careers.We thank Scotiabank for being our Exclusive Financial Partner for 2024-2025.Participation in this FACL BC/Scotiabank session or in any Scotiabank program-related events does not constitute advice or an offer or commitment by Scotiabank to provide any financial products or services. The contents of this material are for informational purposes only and you should seek customized advice and solutions. Neither Scotiabank, the participants nor any of its officers, directors, partners, employees or affiliates accepts any liability whatsoever for any direct or consequential loss arising from any use of this material or its contents.Editors: Richard Wong, Baron Hsueh and Xue Zhang

In this episode, Fiona Wong and Abby Pang speak with Gloria Ng, a criminal defence lawyer and co-founder of Platform Litigation. In this enlightening discussion of a criminal defence practice, Gloria offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on the dynamic, fast-paced, and meaningful work she does as a criminal defence lawyer. When it comes to the often unique needs of her clients, Gloria also recounts interesting experiences which exemplify the need to be flexible and creative as a successful criminal defence practitioner. As the co-founder of her own practice, Gloria also shares her thoughts on how to foster a sustainable and satisfying law firm environment, and the ways in which Platform Litigation has strived to create a healthy and supportive culture for both lawyers and clients alike, especially when it comes to promoting equity and diversity in the office and legal industry generally. Editors: Xue Zhang and Baron Hsueh

In this episode, co-hosts Xue Zhang and Becca Liu welcome Douglas Chiu, a partner at Hammerco Lawyers LLP and a distinguished litigator with nearly two decades of experience in complex financial disputes. Recently recognized by Best Lawyers for his work in personal injury litigation, Douglas brings a wealth of expertise to the conversation. He shares his journey in law, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities he has encountered as an Asian leader in the legal community. He discusses how his cultural background shapes his litigation practice and his approach to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within law firms. Douglas also explores the impact of EDI policies on leadership and the legal profession. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on law, diversity, and leadership. Editors: Gaurav Deep Singh and Xue Zhang

This episode is an edited live recording of the FACL BC event moderated by Jennine Punzalen, FACL BC VP Internal, on November 29th 2023. In this episode, we speak with Stephen Hsia, Christine Yan, Brian Reigh, and Mark Iyengar on their judicial clerkship experiences ranging from the Federal Court, provincial trial and appeal courts, and the Supreme Court of Canada. In their discussion, our panelists discuss the substantive differences between clerking at each court, and share insights on their experiences of diversity and inclusion within their cohorts and with their respective judges. They address challenges related to diversity in the judiciary, discuss how clerkships benefit future legal careers, and highlight the importance of diverse perspectives in the courtroom. They offer advice for students applying for clerkships, with a focus on fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion within the legal profession. Editors: Michael Xu and Baron Hsueh, and reviewed by Xue Zhang

This episode is an edited live recording of the FACL BC event moderated by Mark Leung, FACL BC In-House Committee Chair, on November 27, 2023. In this episode, Alex Su delves into the impact of his Asian-American background on his career path in law and shares his unique journey from being a lawyer in private practice, to a salesperson in legal tech, and now as an internet celebrity. Alex shares the influence of his multicultural upbringing on his life-long journey in the legal industry, and reflects on those transitional moments when he allowed himself to pivot to different legal roles. Alex also answers questions from our audience on topics ranging from navigating discussions of EDI in a private practice environment to the future impact of legal technology on the business and practice of law.  Please note that since the recording of this episode, Alex Su has transitioned into the role of Chief Revenue Officer of Latitude Legal. Editors: Baron Hsueh and Jenny Huang

In this episode, we chat with Stephanie Mui, Assistant Dean of the Career Services Office at Allard Law, about navigating student recruitment. Stephanie shares her career journey, offering essential tips on crafting standout applications, effective networking, and interview preparation. We also discuss post-COVID-19 changes in recruitment and address common misconceptions law students have. Stephanie provides tailored advice for Asian Canadian students on leveraging their unique backgrounds in the recruitment process. Whether you are preparing for OCIs, articling, or early in your legal career, Stephanie's wisdom will guide you through the challenges and help you put your best foot forward.

Join us as we uncover essential insights with Lucy Schilling, partner and Vice Office Managing Partner at Cozen O’Connor’s Vancouver office. Lucy shares perspectives on understanding law as a business, empowering junior associates to take initiative and become indispensable team members, and effective strategies for standing out. Additionally, Lucy explores the importance of networking and business development, offering practical advice to build a strong professional network right from the start. Don’t miss this lively and inspiring conversation packed with actionable advice to help junior lawyers shine and leave a lasting impact! We extend our gratitude to Cozen O'Connor for their sponsorship of this episode. 

In this episode, we dive into Cheryl D'Sa, KC's remarkable journey through the legal landscape. From her beginnings in the accounting department of a law firm during undergrad to her current role as managing partner at Narwal Litigation LLP, Cheryl's career trajectory is truly impressive. Beyond her professional accolades, Cheryl is a fierce advocate for diversity and inclusion in the legal field. Her leadership as an elected Bencher of the Law Society of British Columbia since 2020 and former chair of the LSBC’s EDI Committee, among her work on other committees and task forces, underscores her commitment to creating a more equitable profession. Cheryl was also the first visible minority female president of the Vancouver Bar Association and is one of FACL BC's advisory directors. Throughout our candid conversation, Cheryl opens up about her experiences as a woman in law and the challenges she faced along the way. She shares her insights on mentorship, highlighting the importance of fostering genuine connections and candid sharing, much like cultivating a friendship. In 2023 Cheryl won the Debra Van Ginkel, QC Award for mentoring by the Women Lawyers Forum of the CBABC and has also been a mentor for FACL BC. Cheryl closes this episode with powerful insights on fostering inclusivity, finding peace in others, and being an ally for women and racial minorities in the legal industry.

In this episode, James Hsu unveils his unique career journey - transitioning from a litigator to employment lawyer to in-house legal counsel before finding his calling back in private practice as an employment and human rights lawyer at PortaLaw. James also shares his reflections from a nine-month long break between positions. Having gained valuable insights into maintaining personal autonomy, life satisfaction, and identity, James speaks on the importance of taking a break, understanding the meaning behind your career goals, and "throwing your own party". In this candid conversation, James delves into his reset and pivot into employment law, emphasizing guiding principles like helpfulness, honesty, and a human approach, with the unique addition of "happiness." James concludes the episode with valuable advice for lawyers navigating their own career transitions and finding their place in the legal industry. Please note the following changes since our interview with James: There are now 6 members on the PortaLaw Team. PortaLaw’s guest Ukrainian lawyer has since moved on from his temporary role at PortaLaw to a permanent role in another organization.

In this episode, we chat with James Chen, an accomplished legal professional who's paved a unique career path. As the founder of CMJC Law, James spent over a decade in big firms, specializing in corporate and securities law, before transitioning to an in-house role at a large company, where he drove transformative growth initiatives. In 2016, he took the leap to establish his own practice, CMJC Law, offering legal, strategic, and business advice. James shares insights from his journey, highlighting the importance of a supportive legal network and lessons learned from his varied experiences. Join us for a fresh perspective from James, a seasoned legal professional who has truly seen it all!

In this podcast mini-series, join Brian Cheng for a captivating conversation with Chilwin Cheng, a seasoned business litigator specializing in complex commercial litigation and regulatory and white-collar defence. As the principal of Ascendion Law, Chilwin shares insights into his career journey, the changing landscape of diversity, the significance of mentorship, and his distinct perspective on work-life balance. Together, we'll explore the legal profession, gaining unique insights into Chilwin's exceptional experiences and the challenges he's navigated as an Asian lawyer finding success.

In this episode, we sit down with Gigi Chen-Kuo, TransLink's Chief Operating Officer, as she discusses her 30-year career that fuses law and public transportation. From her favorite TransLink route to her transition from law to an in-house role, Gigi shares insights on her unique position, daily challenges, and defining moments. Get a glimpse into her historic role as the first Asian heritage person to lead TransLink, her involvement in EDI initiatives, and practical advice for balancing legal work with non-legal roles. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Gigi's experiences at the intersection of leadership, law, and public service.

This is the first episode of FACL BC's new Corporate Lawyer Series. In this episode, we invite Julia Winters, a partner in Lawson’s Asia Pacific Group focusing on corporate/commercial and real estate law and the Chief Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Lawson Lundell. Julia shares her journey towards a corporate and real estate practice, her experience interacting specifically with Asian or Chinese clients, and her efforts in promoting EDI. She shares her views on how EDI may be improved in the legal profession. Whether you are a law student interested in solicitor’s work, an associate practising corporate/commercial or real estate law, or an associate considering the partner track, you can benefit from the practical advice that Julia candidly offers. Bonus: you will learn about Julia’s passion beyond practising the law and her vegetable garden.