To commemorate the 25^th anniversary of R v Oakes, [1986] 1 SCR 103, the Ottawa Law Review is holding its Annual Symposium on Section 1 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. As part of the Ottawa Law Review’s commitment to promote meaningful legal discourse, the event will provide a unique opportunity for academics and legal practitioners to present their analysis and perspectives on a landmark legal test that impacts most Charter challenges.

This Symposium will be held on February 9, 2012 at the University of Ottawa, in room 12102 Desmarais Building (55 Laurier Avenue East). This event is open to academics, practitioners, students and the public. Registration will begin at 8:15 am, followed by keynote speakers and several panels of speakers throughout the day. To cap off the Symposium, there will be an intimate wine and cheese reception to finish at 7:30 pm.

The presenters will explore various aspects of Section 1 covering:

• The Oakes test: A Historical Perspective;
• Interpreting Section 1: Pressing and Substantial Objectives, Democracy and the Judiciary;
• Section 1 in the Criminal Law Context;
• Section 1, Official Languages and Aboriginal Peoples; and,
• Section 1: A Feminist and Egalitarian Critique.

The confirmed distinguished guest speakers include:

• Justice Robert Sharpe of the Court of Appeal for Ontario;
• Justice David Stratas of the Federal Court of Appeal;
• Justice David Paciocco of the Ontario Court of Justice;
• Professor Lorraine Weinrib from the University of Toronto;
• Professor Martha Jackman of the University of Ottawa; 
• Janet Minor, counsel at the Constitutional Law Branch of the Attorney General for Ontario
• & many more!

Please feel free to register your attendance online here. The first 75 people registered who arrive at the Symposium will receive a ticket for a free lunch!

If you are interested in learning more please contact lawrev@uottawa.ca.