In recognition for his outstanding commitment to the legal profession, we are pleased to announce that McCarthy Tétrault associate counsel, Leonard T. Doust, Q.C., is the recipient of the Law Society of British Columbia’s 2020 Law Society Award. 

The Award, offered every two years, honours the lifetime contribution made by an exceptional member of the Law Society, someone who has gone above and beyond to advance and inspire excellence in the profession, the administration of justice, and in others.

A member of the Law Society of British Columbia for more than 50 years, Leonard’s contributions and commitment to public service have indeed elevated the profession and its members. His long-term mentorship of young lawyers has helped shape some of Canada’s most prominent lawyers, judges and justices. “He is one of the most highly regarded lawyers nationwide in dispute resolution, securities law, commercial litigation and criminal defence. But most of all, Len has been a mentor and friend to many of our partners and associates over the last three decades,” said Caroline Zayid, the firm’s national litigation practice group leader.

Leonard’s role as Commissioner of the Public Commission on Legal Aid opened a province-wide discussion on how to prioritize and improve legal aid and access to justice, something Len describes as “an absolutely essential social service.” The resulting comprehensive report, Foundation for Change, detailed the Commission’s findings, and has since become the guideline for change in the Law Society’s and the Province’s management of social justice.

Leonard is a member of the firm’s Litigation Group practising in Vancouver where his practice includes criminal law, securities law and general civil litigation. He is a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. Leonard’s recognitions are numerous and include the Vancouver Bar Association's Peter S. Hyndman Mentorship Award, the BC Lawyers Assistance Program's Lawyer Helping Lawyer Award, the University of British Columbia Faculty of Law Alumni Award of Distinction, and the Canadian Bar Association (BC Branch) President's Medal.

About McCarthy Tétrault

McCarthy Tétrault LLP provides a broad range of legal services, advising on large and complex assignments for Canadian and international interests. The firm has substantial presence in Canada’s major commercial centres as well as in New York City and London, UK.

Built on an integrated approach to the practice of law and delivery of innovative client services, the Firm brings its legal talent, industry insight and practice experience to help clients achieve the results that are important to them.

For further information, or to request an interview with a McCarthy Tétrault lawyer, please contact:

Alley Adams
416-601-7928
[email protected]