Toronto—In its October 2020 issue, Marina Sampson, partner in Dentons' Litigation and Dispute Resolution group and one of Canada's leading women in litigation, spoke to Canadian Lawyer about how the pandemic has impacted working life and the courts.

Marina shared her views around the significant upheaval caused by the pandemic, affecting all aspects of work and life where routines and the systems that were relied upon and adhered to have changed considerably. Law firms and courts have also needed to adapt and change accordingly for which the work is ongoing.

In the article, she said: “In June and in August, from my vantage, the court could not have been more accommodating and responsive. Everyone ensured that things went seamlessly. That was the court at its best.”

She adds, “Focusing on what it is to be a woman litigator, and with children, we’re already susceptible to feelings of falling short at home or at work. Our clients are in the same position as us; they have big demands and expectations that have not let up but have only increased as a result of the pandemic and all the uncertainty it created.

“Now that we’ve demonstrated that we can successfully work remotely, this goes to the question of ensuring a more equitable treatment. Working from home or remotely isn’t only a women’s issue. It has been done by everyone and successfully. The caveat is that I don’t think it’s the be-all and end-all going forward.”

To read the full story, check out the article available only to subscribers of Canadian Lawyer here.

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