Family Law: Ahluwalia v. Ahluwalia: Anticipating Change at the Intersection of Family Violence and Tort Law
As the legal community awaits the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in Ahluwalia v. Ahluwalia, family law practitioners are bracing for what could be a defining moment in the intersection of tort law and domestic abuse. The case raises the possibility of recognizing a new tort specific to family violence—an outcome that could significantly reshape the legal tools available to survivors as well as the responsibilities of legal counsel.
In this session, Neil McPhee—partner at Lakefield LLP and counsel for intervenor PATHS—will provide a detailed and practice-focused analysis of the issues raised in the appeal and the potential directions the Supreme Court may take.
Attendees will benefit from:
- A concise summary of the trial and appellate court decisions and how they framed the central legal questions.
- An examination of the legal test and policy considerations involved in recognizing a new nominate tort.
- A discussion on the development and application of the tort of intentional infliction of mental suffering in the family law context.
- Practical insight into how this pending decision may influence future pleadings, remedies, and the broader legal duties owed to clients in cases involving allegations of abuse.
Whether you practice family law, civil litigation, or work in policy or advocacy, this session will equip you with timely knowledge and analysis to prepare for the potential changes ahead.
Date/Time: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 |12:00 - 1:00 pm (SK) | Zoom
Speaker: Neil McPhee, Lakefield LLP
Section Chair: Ashala Naidu, Naidu Legal
Cost: Free for CBA Members
This program qualifies for 1.0 CPD hours under the Law Society of Saskatchewan Continuing Professional Development Policy.
This will be a zoom webinar so you can join via your computer or phone. We will provide instructions when you register of how to access Zoom if you are not familiar with this format.