NCA Network: Legally Abroad
What is "Legally Abroad" about?
So you’re looking to become a lawyer in Canada and get some Canadian experience? You’ve come to the right place! Hosted by Kim Gale and Sam Allan, we talk to NCA lawyers, industry experts, and leaders in the community to give you tips on how to navigate the process (and assure you that it really is all going to be okay). Kim founded NCA Network in 2018 and Sam was right there with her when it all began. We’ll chat about networking, how to build your portfolio, transitioning to your career after law school, and more. This is a NCA Network podcast. Join us on this legal adventure!
AVAILABLE EPISODES
EPISODE 17: "MASTERING MONEY: FINANCIAL STRATEGIES FOR LAWYERS WITH LAWYERS FINANCIAL"
Lawyers Financial, formerly known as The Canadian Bar Insurance Association (CBIA), is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing high-quality insurance and investment products at competitive rates exclusively for the legal community. With over 40 years of experience, they offer a comprehensive suite of financial solutions, including life, health, and disability insurance, as well as investment options and pension plans, all tailored to meet the unique needs of lawyers, their families, and their firms.
Whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced lawyer, this episode offers practical advice to help you achieve financial wellness while navigating the unique demands of the legal profession.
A big thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Osgoode Professional Development, a leader in lifelong learning for legal professionals; Lawyers Financial, offering comprehensive insurance and investment solutions for lawyers, and Emond Exam Prep, providing tailored study resources for Canadian legal exams!
EPISODE 16: "ONE STEP CLOSER: EMPOWERING INTERNATIONALLY TRAINED LAWYERS WITH JOY"
In this episode of NCA Network’s Legal Abroad, hosts Samantha Allan and Kim Gale sit down with Ishita Kashyap, a securities and capital markets lawyer, and Mrunal Masurekar, a corporate and regulatory lawyer in Toronto—co-founders of JOY (Just One Yes)!
They share their journeys, detailing the twists and turns of building careers in Toronto’s competitive Bay Street arena. Their passion for assisting internationally trained lawyers (ITLs) shines as they discuss how JOY and NCA Network are paving pathways to meaningful connections and better visibility in the legal market.
Listen in for their expert advice on navigating the recruitment process, building a network, and breaking into the Canadian legal industry. JOY’s mission is clear: to empower ITLs to showcase their talents and assist employers in recognizing the incredible potential within the international legal community.
This episode is packed with practical insights and a whole lot of heart for aspiring lawyers everywhere!
EPISODE 15: "PATHWAY TO PRACTICE: IMMIGRATING TO CANADA AS AN ITL"
Our expert guests share their deep knowledge and practical tips on navigating the Canadian immigration process. They offer valuable advice on how to successfully immigrate to Canada as an ITL, from understanding the legal requirements to overcoming common challenges. Whether you’re just starting your journey or are already in the process, this podcast episode is your essential guide to making a smooth transition and achieving your professional dreams in Canada!
Tune in for expert insights, candid discussions, and all the support you need to take your legal career across borders.
EPISODE 14: "NAVIGATING THE PROVINCIAL PATHWAYS IN CANADIAN LAW WITH THE LAW SOCIETY OF ALBERTA"
Dive into the world of law across provinces with our latest podcast with our hosts Kim Gale and Samantha Allan!
In this latest episode, we’re joined by esteemed guests Brad Wilton, Coordinator and Membership with the Law Society of Alberta, and Len Polsky, Manager of Legal Technology and Mentorship with the Law Society of Alberta. Together, we explore the unique licensing processes in Alberta, Canada, the CPLED program, and the invaluable resources and mentorship offered by the Law Society of Ontario!
Gain insights into the journey of ITLs and the diverse pathways to becoming a lawyer in Alberta. Tune in to navigate the diverse legal landscapes of Ontario and Alberta.
EPISODE 13: "GOING SOLO: THRIVING IN INDEPENDENT PRACTICE"
Join us in a conversation with Ayaz Medhi, exploring the intricacies of managing a diverse range of clients and practices. From navigating the complexities of practice management to fostering client relationships, Ayaz shares invaluable insights and strategies for thriving in the realm of independent practice. Tune in as we uncover the keys to success for solo practice.
EPISODE 12: "MICRO-LENDING WITH MACRO SOLUTIONS: LEGAL AMBITIONS FUELED BY WINDMILL"
Explore how Windmill Microlending empowers skilled legal professionals to conquer financial hurdles and achieve career aspirations in Canada. Unlock opportunities with low-interest loans for accreditation and training.
Join us and our featured guests, Daniel Zaiontz and Sachin Kapoor of Windmill Microlendings, as we delve into the application process, the transformative impact of Windmill, success narratives, and beyond. Tune in for actionable insights to overcome financial barriers and pave the way for your professional journey!
EPISODE 11: "ABRIDGING YOUR ARTICLES: NAVIGATING SUCCESS IN ONTARIO"
In this concise and insightful discussion, we provide practical guidance to help you navigate this pivotal choice.
Our guest, Meghan Thomas, Director of Professional Graduate & International Programs at Osgoode Hall Law School, shares her expertise in working with students considering abridgements. She offers valuable insights into the abridgement process and expert advice on navigating licensing requirements.
We are also joined by Prerna Arora, Founder of Kosha Legal LLP, who provides a unique perspective. Prerna, a lawyer from India currently in the 2023-24 licensing cycle, shares her experiences as a legal business owner and offers insights into her decision-making process and whether abridgements were the right fit for her situation.
Tune in to gain a clear understanding of the pros and cons of abridging your articles. Learn from Meghan’s expertise and Prerna’s firsthand experiences to make an informed choice about abridging your articles and chart your path to success in Ontario’s legal landscape!
EPISODE 10: "NCA PROCESS WITH DEBORAH WOLFE"
Join us with Deborah Wolfe, Executive Director of the National Committee on Accreditation where she maps out the whole NCA process.
How does the accreditation system work? What subjects do you need to become a lawyer? Are you coming from a non-common law jurisdiction?
We get answers and much more from Deborah to help you truly understand what NCA does and how it is crucial for your legal journey in Canada!
EPISODE 9: "MANAGING UP-A TEAM OF EQUALS"
Join us as we talk with Gina Alexandris and Sandra Bekhor about a refreshing subject that is almost never talked about amongst the legal community i.e ” Management” . It isn’t just a subject of interest for the MBAs but also relevant to us as lawyers when we show up at work as an employer, employee, a subordinate or a co- worker. We have the power to manage those around us to make us an invaluable part of the team and a rockstar lawyer. In this episode, we speak about how you can improve your performance at work and ensure professional growth at your workplace.
EPISODE 8: "LAW AND ORDER: STARTING A CRIMINAL LAW PRACTICE"
EPISODE 7: "LICENSING IN ONTARIO: A CHAT WITH THE LSO"
EPISODE 6: "BARRISTER VS. SOLICITOR: ADRENALINE RUSH OR HAPPY LAW?"
EPISODE 5: TIPS ON HOW TO LAND AN ARTICLING JOB AT A TOP-TIER FIRM
EPISODE 4: RESILIENCE- HOW TO HANDLE THE UPS AND DOWNS
EPISODE 3: HIRE ME
EPISODE 2: TAKE THE PLUNGE, MOVE AND KEEP YOUR PRACTICE
EPISODE 1: FOCUS ON NETWORKING
