From October 15–17, 2025, Cambridge LLP lawyers took part in Northeastern Ontario’s premier continuing legal education conference, the 15th Annual Sudbury Colloquium — a gathering of judges, practitioners, and students dedicated to improving the law and legal practice across the province.
In addition to the speakers below, Cambridge LLP is proud to recognize Tim Phelan who served as Co-Chair of the 2025 Sudbury Colloquium. Tim played a central role in organizing and coordinating this year’s program — a year-long effort that made the success of this milestone event possible.
Keynote Address: A Call to Defend Rights and Freedoms
Cambridge LLP Partner Douglas Elliott delivered the Gala Dinner keynote address at Science North, urging attendees to remain steadfast in their defence of human rights and civil liberties. Against the backdrop of growing global threats to democratic institutions, Doug’s message was a timely reminder of the legal profession’s duty to speak out and act with courage.
Civil Litigation Reform: Paradigm Shift Ahead
Doug also joined a distinguished panel — alongside Douglas Judson, Patrick Sloan, and Justice Lucille Shaw — to discuss the forthcoming changes to Ontario’s Rules of Civil Procedure. While panelists held differing views on the merits of the reforms, all agreed they represent a fundamental shift in how civil litigation will be conducted in Ontario courts.
Construction Law Insights: Navigating the Pitfalls
As part of the Civil Litigation session, Leonard Finegold, Chair of Cambridge LLP’s Construction Law Group, delivered a focused presentation on the risks and realities of construction litigation. He emphasized that many disputes stem from early oversights and unclear documentation — and underscored the importance of understanding evolving legal and procedural trends in the construction industry.
Mentorship in Action: Supporting the Next Generation
Associate Abigail Hawkes co-led the Young Lawyers’ Mentoring Session, where she offered practical guidance on professional ethics, advocacy, and practice management. Abigail joined a panel of respected colleagues from across Ontario in an engaging roundtable that emphasized community, resilience, and adaptability in the early years of practice.