Law Society of Saskatchewan Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Research Report

December 16, 2021

As the population of Saskatchewan becomes increasingly diverse, the legal profession is also evolving. To advance access to justice and legitimacy and responsiveness in the administration of justice, the Law Society considers equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of its mandate and operations as outlined in our Strategic Plan. 

During 2021, the Law Society conducted an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion survey to receive input from all members, building on earlier valuable insights from a small percentage of members from equity-seeking groups.  

‘Equity-seeking groups’ are communities that face significant collective challenges in participating in and being included in society. This marginalization could be created by attitudinal, historical, social, and environmental barriers based on age, ancestry, colour, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, disability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, sex, sexual orientation, or other diverse backgrounds. 

The final report of the survey findings can be accessed here. The survey was conducted by Illumina Research Partners, an independent third party, and in accordance with Canadian Research and Insights Council standards.  

The survey was a census (non-probability sample) where all Saskatchewan lawyers and students-at-law were invited to participate. The survey was completed by 275 members and students-at-law in Saskatchewan, achieving a 11% response rate and resulting confidence in the results as representative of the membership. Overall, fewer males completed the survey compared to Law Society membership demographics, while more respondents identified as LGBTQ+ in the survey results. Remaining comparisons were similar between membership and survey respondents, including in relation to different practice locations, settings, and areas of practice.  

The survey objective was to understand member perspectives, personal experiences, including the impact of COVID-19, and to focus efforts to advance programs and initiatives that promote an inclusive legal profession. Overall, the survey found that a majority of members recognize there are equity, diversity and inclusion issues within Saskatchewan’s legal profession from entry into practice to advancement during a law career. 

As outlined in a previous article, within the legal profession, equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts take on special significance as the profession has a particular role in upholding and advancing the rule of law and access to justice. The survey identified that a majority of members agree that the challenges faced by equity-seeking groups affect access to justice for Saskatchewan communities and the quality of legal services for the public. 

The Law Society is committed to promoting and supporting diversity, inclusiveness and cultural competence amongst all Saskatchewan firms, lawyers and legal service providers and will be prioritizing actions identified in the report for implementation. Notably, the majority of members agree that the Law Society should take action to improve equity, diversity, and inclusion within the profession.   

If you have any questions, please email us at: equity@lawsociety.sk.ca.