New Children's Lawyer

July 30, 2008 permalink

Debra L Stephens is replacing Clare Burns as Ontario's Children's Lawyer. This is one of the least effective organs of Ontario government. In many cases, the children's lawyer does not speak to his client. We have yet to hear of a children's lawyer in a child protection case who pleads to have his client placed under parental care. We hope, without any real basis, the new appointment represents a change in policy. The press release, abridged below, contains quotes to help journalists write a story. The commercial press has ignored the story, but Canada Court Watch comments Ding Dong the wicked witch is gone! (pdf).

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Ontario Ministry of The Attorney General

Attention News Editors:

New Children's Lawyer appointed

TORONTO, July 29 /CNW/ - NEWS

Debra L. Stephens has been appointed as Ontario's new Children's Lawyer, effective August 1, 2008.

Called to the Bar in 1982, her practice has focused on estate, trust and guardianship issues, specializing in estate administration and planning. She has also served as an agent for the Children's Lawyer.

Stephens is a member of the Toronto Lawyers Association and the Ontario Bar Association, Family Law and Trusts and Estates Sections. She has been an adjunct professor with the University of Toronto Law School and Humber College, and has published works on estate and trust issues.

Stephens replaces Clare Burns, who has served with distinction as the Children's Lawyer since January 2003.

Source: Canada News Wire