He is director of legal research and writing at University of Alberta’s law school
The Canadian Bar Association’s Alberta branch (CBA Alberta) has noted that Christopher Samuel, based in Edmonton, has commenced his year-long term as its president as of Sept. 1.
In its news release, CBA Alberta shared that Samuel has replaced Robert D.L. Bassett of Calgary, who remains on the executive committee as past president. Samuel’s fellow executive committee members also include:
- Sarah Coderre, vice-president
- Kathy Briere, treasurer
- Tracey Stock, secretary
CBA Alberta said its board of directors includes:
- Yoko Azumaya
- Travis Bissett
- Maddison Croden
- Patricia Gonzalez
- Jonathan Griffith
- Sifa Serushago
- Michael Thorne
- Sierra Yanush
According to the news release, Samuel has belonged to the CBA since he was a student at the University of New Brunswick Faculty of Law and contributed significantly to CBA Alberta during his almost two decades of membership.
CBA Alberta noted that he has long volunteered for Edmonton Law Day, during which he proved his passion for public legal education and access to justice. He also sat on the executive committees of the organization’s young lawyers and criminal justice sections at the provincial and national levels.
“As someone who is intimately involved in the development of the next generation of lawyers, ensuring that the future of the profession is welcoming, inclusive and a rewarding career choice is crucial,” he said in the news release. “CBA Alberta is uniquely suited to provide mentorship, connections and tools that members need to be leaders in our profession and their communities.”
Samuel expressed his eagerness to engage with law students, young lawyers, and other members throughout his year as CBA Alberta’s president. Samuel urged members to reach out to the executive committee with any questions, issues, or feedback.
“The Canadian Bar Association is essential in the role that it plays supporting legal professionals across Canada, and I am proud to serve as President of the Alberta Branch,” Samuel said.
CBA Alberta acts for more than 5,500 lawyers, justices, legal academics, and law students in the province.
More on Samuel
The branch’s news release provided information on Samuel’s legal practice and community involvement.
He clerked at what is now known as the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta, finished his articles at Canada’s justice department, and joined the Alberta bar in 2011.
For many years, Samuel acted as a Crown prosecutor at the Public Prosecution Service of Canada’s Edmonton office. There, he developed a trial and appellate practice and appeared at all levels of the province’s courts.
In 2018, he became director of legal research and writing at the University of Alberta Faculty of Law. He has taught legal research, writing, advocacy, and criminal law in this role. He has also coordinated the law school’s competitive moot program.
Samuel has been a dedicated community volunteer, including as president of his community league. He has served on the board of directors of Rapid Fire Theatre, a local improvisational theatre company, and numerous City of Edmonton municipal tribunals.
