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9:45 am – 11:00 am
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Concurrent Sessions
7A – Not So Express Entry: Helping Clients Navigate the Unknown
"Marking a decade since its launch, the Express Entry system has undergone significant changes over the past year, reshaping how applications for Canada’s core skills immigration programs are managed. These shifts bring both new challenges and opportunities for prospective skilled immigrants—and for the lawyers guiding them.This session will equip practitioners with the knowledge and strategies needed to help clients navigate the complexities of the evolving system. Our panel of experts will address critical updates and issues, including: 1. The removal of qualifying job offer points and other Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) changes. 2. Managing high CRS thresholds for Invitations to Apply (ITAs). 3. Understanding the future prospects for Federal Skilled Worker Program candidates. 4. The implications of category-based ITAs, such as the emphasis on French language skills. 5. Strategies for addressing processing delays and extended waits for ITAs. 6. Exploring pathways beyond Express Entry for skilled immigration. Whether you’re advising first-time applicants or long-term skilled immigration candidates, this session will provide practical insights and actionable tools to help you guide your clients through Canada’s redefined immigration landscape."
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
7B – Pixels and Precedents: Tackling Tech-Driven Immigration Decisions in Court
Welcome to the evolving landscape of immigration litigation, where artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced technology are reshaping decision-making processes. From mass decisions generated by tools like Chinook to refusals stemming from technical issues like missing webform attachments, these advancements are creating new complexities for practitioners and their clients. This session delves into the intersection of technology and immigration law, exploring the latest caselaw and legal principles addressing tech-driven decision-making. Participants will gain insights into collecting and presenting evidence in cases involving automated processes, systemic patterns, or algorithmic errors. The discussion will also focus on strategies for managing bulk decisions, uncovering underlying issues in tech-driven refusals, and building effective cases to challenge adverse outcomes. Join us to deepen your understanding of the role technology plays in immigration decisions and learn practical approaches to navigate this rapidly changing arena. Whether you’re an experienced litigator or new to these emerging issues, this session will provide valuable tools and strategies for effective advocacy.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
7C – Complex Issues, Shifting Landscapes: Current Legal Issues facing LGBTQ+ Applicants
Join us for an in-depth exploration of the unique challenges and legal complexities facing LGBTQ+ immigration applicants in today’s evolving landscape. This session will examine critical issues impacting LGBTQ+ applicants, offering practical strategies to help practitioners navigate these cases and ensure clients receive the best possible representation. The discussion will cover key topics such as conjugal sponsorship applications, highlighting specific hurdles LGBTQ+ applicants may face in proving relationships, as well as challenges in DR2 (Designated Representative) applications. Attendees will gain insights into addressing systemic barriers, building compelling cases, and advocating effectively for LGBTQ+ clients in both immigration and refugee processes.This session is a must-attend for practitioners looking to stay informed on the shifting legal landscape and develop skills to support vulnerable populations in navigating complex immigration systems.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
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11:15 am – 12:30 pm
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Concurrent Sessions
8A – Inspection Ready: Addressing Challenges and Hot Topics in Employer Compliance
Employer compliance is under intense scrutiny, with a significant increase in fines and enforcement actions over the past year. The stakes have never been higher for businesses employing foreign workers. This session will address the most common issues leading to compliance problems, with a focused review of recent case law highlighting key friction points and legal clarifications. Gain actionable strategies to prepare employers for inspections before work permit issuance and practical advice for those already under inspection. Don’t miss this essential session to help your clients avoid costly mistakes and navigate the rising challenges of employer compliance.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
8B – The Last Line of Defense: Advocating for Clients Facing Removal
In an era of heightened immigration enforcement, practitioners must be prepared to act swiftly and decisively when clients face removal from Canada. This critical session provides a comprehensive toolkit for immigration lawyers navigating the complex terrain of removal proceedings. Experienced speakers will guide attendees through the essential steps of preparing clients for removals and deportations, crafting compelling deferral applications, and constructing effective stay motions. Key topics include strategies for counseling clients facing imminent removal, best practices for gathering and presenting evidence in deferral applications, and techniques for drafting persuasive stay motions under tight deadlines. The session will also cover recent developments in removal policy and jurisprudence, as well as ethical considerations when representing clients at risk of deportation. Whether you're new to removal defense or looking to refine your skills, this session offers invaluable insights to help you mount a robust defense for your clients when they need it most. Join us to enhance your ability to navigate this high-stakes area of immigration law and provide critical advocacy at the eleventh hour.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
8C – Fixing the Fallout: Strategies for Addressing Ineffective Legal Representation
When prior representatives—whether officially on the record or not—make critical errors or mishandle applications, the stakes for your clients and your practice can be immense. As a practitioner, knowing how to assess and rectify the damage caused by ineffective counsel is crucial to salvaging cases and ensuring your clients get a fair chance. This session provides actionable insights into tackling cases affected by significant mistakes or negligence from previous representatives. Attendees will learn how to raise claims of ineffective counsel in legal submissions, with a focus on best practices for addressing these issues before the Federal Court or the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). The session will also cover strategies for helping clients recover from prior mismanagement, rebuild their cases, and navigate toward successful outcomes. Join this essential session to gain the expertise and confidence needed to take on problematic files and advocate effectively for clients whose cases have been derailed by prior counsel’s missteps.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
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1:45 pm – 3:20 pm
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Concurrent Sessions - Hot Topics (Choose any 2)
Back by popular demand there are 6 “HotTopics” sessions to choose from. These sessions will take the form of a discussion and will allow participants to ask questions to senior practitioners regarding popular subjects in a more intimate setting. The time will be split in two, so a participant can attend 2 hot topics of their choice during this time slot.
Six (6) subjects will be running at the same time. Speakers will run each of their sessions twice during this time slot.
9.1 – Naturalize This: Analyzing & Navigating the New Rules of Citizenship
This session explores the landmark case of Bjorkquist et al. v. Attorney General of Canada, which declared the second-generation cut-off for Canadians born abroad unconstitutional, reshaping the conversation around citizenship rights. The discussion will also provide an update on Bill C-71, An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act (2024), examining its potential impact on citizenship rules and requirements. Attendees will gain insights into how this proposed legislation aims to address the ability of Canadians born abroad to pass on citizenship to their children, as well as the broader implications for those affected by the second-generation cut-off. Join this session for a comprehensive overview of these pivotal changes and what they mean for practitioners and their clients navigating Canadian citizenship law.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
9.2 – Complicated Compassion: Top Tips for Humanitarian & Compassionate Applications
As restrictions tighten across immigration programs, a growing number of desperate applicants are turning to Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) applications as a last resort. With over one million temporary residents facing expiring status in the coming year and a reduction in H&C target numbers planned for 2025, the volume of these applications is expected to surge. This makes it absolutely critical for practitioners to prepare and submit applications with the strongest possible chance of success. This session offers a comprehensive review of the key elements of H&C applications, including the legal framework and policies guiding decision-making. Participants will learn practical steps for preparing compelling applications, navigating processing procedures, and converting existing applications into H&Cs. The session will also provide strategies for evoking compassion in submissions, addressing refused applications, and exploring alternative pathways when an H&C application is not successful. Gain valuable insights to help your clients during this increasingly challenging time in Canadian immigration.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
9.3 – From Fear to Freedom: Advanced Topics in Refugee Advocacy
The ripple effects of policy changes in the United States are significantly impacting refugee practice in Canada, creating new complexities and challenges for advocates. This advanced session delves into the nuanced and evolving landscape of refugee claims, equipping experienced practitioners with the tools and strategies needed to address these emerging issues effectively. The session will examine complex refugee claims, including those involving ministerial intervention, exclusion, Indigenous refugee advocacy, and address unique challenges and considerations for supporting Indigenous individuals seeking refuge. Additionally, the session will explore the broader impact of recent Canadian policy changes on the processing of refugee applications, shedding light on procedural adjustments and their implications for both clients and advocates. Participants will gain practical strategies to tackle these multifaceted challenges, with a focus on fostering resilience and empowering refugees to move from fear to freedom. Whether you're navigating cross-border complexities, advocating for marginalized populations, or addressing delays in processing, this session offers the insights and guidance necessary to support refugees through the most challenging aspects of their journey.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
9.4 – The Mobility Matrix: Decoding IMP Work Permit Changes
IRCC has announced important changes to the International Mobility Program (IMP), bringing new challenges and opportunities for business applicants. In this session, you will gain practical insights into the latest ICT guidelines, including their impact on corporate transfers, business expansion to Canada, and MNC requirements. You’ll explore critical issues such as work location, remote work possibilities, and meeting ICT criteria. This session is invaluable for anyone advising businesses, investors, and corporations on international expansion to Canada, helping you navigate new developments and the potential influence of new/revised trade agreements, equipping you with the tools to provide strategic, informed guidance to your clients in this evolving landscape.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
9.5 – Anatomy of a Cross: Dissecting a Real-Life Examination in Detail
Cross-examination is a critical skill for any immigration and refugee lawyer, but mastering it requires more than just asking the right questions. In this session, we’ll delve into real cross-examination issues, offering an insider’s perspective on how to effectively prepare, execute, and respond during this pivotal stage of proceedings. You’ll hear best practices from seasoned practitioners and valuable insights from the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) on what makes a cross-examination compelling and credible. Gain practical tips on crafting questions, handling unexpected answers, and maintaining control in high-pressure situations. Whether you’re new to cross-examinations or looking to refine your technique, this session provides actionable strategies to elevate your advocacy skills and ensure you’re fully prepared for your next hearing.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
9.6 – Stuck in Limbo: Using Mandamus to Move Stalled Immigration Cases Forward
With IRCC's announcement of 3,300 job cuts over the next three years, processing delays are set to grow, making mandamus applications an increasingly vital tool for immigration practitioners. This session provides a practical, in-depth guide to effectively using mandamus to address stalled cases. Our expert panel will break down when and why to use this remedy, key considerations for when it may not be appropriate, and best practices for preparing a strong application. You'll gain insights into the legal tests involved, strategies for successful arguments, and how to navigate the challenges posed by reduced staffing levels. The session also includes an overview of recent case law, offering a closer look at the courts' interpretation of emerging issues in mandamus proceedings. Whether you're new to mandamus or seeking to refine your expertise, this session will equip you with actionable strategies to help your clients overcome delays and move their cases forward.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
9.7 – Degrees of Difficulty: Navigating Canada's International Student Program and PGWP
The International Student Program (ISP) has undergone significant scrutiny and rapid changes over the past year, creating a complex and often uncertain environment for students and practitioners alike. This session dives into the major updates affecting study permits, Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility, and Federal Court challenges to recent policies. Participants will explore key topics, including Provincial Authorization Letters, PGWP eligible programs, changing Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), dealing with common refusals, and best practices for advising students who fail a semester or their final semester. For PGWP applicants, the session will address critical considerations, including when to apply, navigating implied status, timelines, Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) factors, and alternative options for clients who do not meet PGWP criteria. Finally, the session will offer practical advice on how to support and guide international students in 2025, helping them navigate these evolving policies and make informed decisions about their future in Canada. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain essential insights and strategies for advising clients in this ever-changing landscape.
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
9.8 – Practice Makes Perfect: Proactive Steps to Build a Resilient Immigration Practice & Avoid Complicated Pitfalls
"Running a legal practice has never been more challenging, with immigration practitioners facing unprecedented risks and pressures. With the looming threat of Administrative Monetary Penalties, an increasingly competitive market, and rising liabilities, running a successful practice requires more than just legal expertise. It demands resilience and adaptability. In this session, you’ll uncover the key strategies to not only survive but thrive, including developing best practices and systems for your practice, mastering marketing during uncertain times, regulatory planning, managing finances, hiring and retaining top talent, enhancing client relations, and leveraging cutting-edge technology. This is your opportunity to gain critical insights into mitigating risks and confidently tackling the challenges of building a sustainable and future-proof practice in today’s demanding environment."
Speakers: TBC
Moderator: TBC
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