Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The Law Society of Saskatchewan promotes and supports inclusion, equity, and diversity within its leadership and staff, and among Saskatchewan firms, lawyers, legal service providers, and the public.  

The Law Society’s Equity & Access Committee monitors developments and provides advice on issues affecting equity, diversity, and inclusion in the legal profession and explores and recommends actions and/or initiatives to be taken. The Law Society is committed to the following goals: 

• Evolve the composition of the Law Society Board and staff to reflect the diversity of experience and perspective of the public we serve. 
• Increase the cultural competency of the Law Society Board and staff, as well as lawyers and other legal service providers. 
• Reduce barriers to entry, advancement and retention in the legal profession faced by equity seeking groups. 
• Increase the commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in Law Society policies and procedures. 

Contact us: equity@lawsociety.sk.ca 

Research 

Law Society Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Research 

The Law Society of Saskatchewan conducted an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion survey during 2021 to understand member perspectives and personal experiences, and to focus efforts to advance programs and initiatives that promote an inclusive legal profession.  Overall, the survey found that a majority of respondents recognize there are equity, diversity and inclusion issues within Saskatchewan’s legal profession from entry into practice to advancement during a law career.  

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

Law Society Bencher Election Research 

In 2021, the Law Society conducted a member survey on Bencher elections to understand barriers to becoming a Bencher and whether there are additional or compounded barriers for members of equity-seeking groups. Overall, the survey identified more barriers for equity-seeking members to running for election as a Bencher, however there are similar perceptions between the profession overall and equity-seeking members.  

The Law Society is prioritizing actions to address barriers identified in the report, including networking support, encouragement to run in elections, and consideration of the categories set out in the Rules of the Law Society. 

Resources – Continuing Professional Development 

The Law Society provides ongoing education and training related to equity, diversity, and inclusion. These programs are offered for free and qualify for ethics hours under the Law Society Continuing Professional Development (CPD) policy.  

Resources – Equity in the Workplace 

• Saskatchewan Justicia Project 
  • Flexible work arrangements – PDF | MS Word 
  • Parental leave – PDF | MS Word 
  • Retention and advancement survey report 
  • Law Firm Commitment Letter  

• Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission 
  • Education & Resources on sexual harassment 
  • Guide to Application Forms & Interviews