Call for Nominations: Board of Directors
The Canadian Bar Association British Columbia Branch (CBABC) has officially opened its call for nominations for the 2025-2026 Board of Directors. This announcement presents a significant opportunity for CBABC members to step into key leadership roles and shape the future of the organization.
Several positions are available, including Second Vice-President, Young Lawyers Representative, and four Directors-at-large. These roles are one-year terms set to begin in September 2025 and conclude in August 2026. Eligible candidates must be current members of the CBABC Provincial Council and maintain their CBA membership throughout their term if elected.
The Board of Directors is designed to reflect the diversity of the legal profession in British Columbia. To ensure geographic representation, at least one director must practice in Nanaimo or Victoria, another in Westminster County, and a third in Cariboo, Kootenay, Prince Rupert, or Yale.
The time commitment for Board members includes two in-person day-long meetings, five half-day virtual meetings, and bi-monthly 90-minute virtual committee meetings. These responsibilities are balanced with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the direction of the CBABC.
The Second Vice-President role is particularly notable, as it is part of a leadership progression. The individual elected to this position will automatically succeed to First Vice-President the following year and then assume the presidency in the year after.
For the Young Lawyers Representative position, specific eligibility criteria apply, including age, years of practice, or current leadership roles. This role is designed to ensure the voices of early-career lawyers are represented at the highest levels of the organization.
Prospective candidates must submit a nomination form and a 750-word election statement by April 2, 2025. Additionally, up to two nominators may provide 250-word messages of support by April 9, 2025. The election will take place during the Provincial Council meeting on May 3, 2025, with candidates having the opportunity to address the Council before voting.
This call for nominations is a pivotal moment for CBABC members to take on leadership roles and contribute to the organization’s mission. Interested candidates are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and submit their nominations by the April 2 deadline.
For more information, including the nomination form and detailed eligibility requirements, visit the CBABC website at https://www.cbabc.org.
Leadership Opportunities and Nomination Details
The CBABC is committed to fostering a Board of Directors that reflects the geographic and demographic diversity of British Columbia’s legal community. To achieve this, the Board must include at least one director practicing in the Nanaimo/Victoria region, one in Westminster County, and one in the Cariboo, Kootenay, Prince Rupert, or Yale areas. This geographic diversity ensures that the needs and perspectives of lawyers from all parts of the province are represented.
The time commitment for Board members is structured to balance the demands of legal practice with the responsibilities of leadership. Members are expected to attend two in-person day-long meetings, five half-day virtual meetings, and bi-monthly 90-minute virtual committee meetings. These meetings provide opportunities for strategic planning, policy development, and collaboration with fellow professionals.
The Second Vice-President role offers a unique opportunity for leadership growth. As part of a formal leadership progression, the Second Vice-President will automatically succeed to the position of First Vice-President in the following year and then assume the presidency the year after. This structured approach ensures continuity and allows leaders to develop their skills progressively.
The Young Lawyers Representative position is designed to amplify the voices of early-career lawyers within the CBABC. Eligibility for this role is determined by specific criteria, including age, years of practice, or current leadership roles. This ensures that the perspectives of younger lawyers are integrated into the decision-making processes of the Board.
Prospective candidates are required to submit a nomination form and a 750-word election statement by April 2, 2025. This statement should outline their vision, qualifications, and goals for the CBABC. Additionally, up to two nominators may submit 250-word messages of support by April 9, 2025, highlighting the candidate’s suitability for the role.
The election will be conducted through an online ballot during the Provincial Council meeting on May 3, 2025. Candidates will have the opportunity to address the Council before voting, providing a platform to articulate their ideas and connect with the membership. This transparent and inclusive process ensures that all voices are heard and that the most qualified candidates are elected to the Board.
Conclusion
The call for nominations for the 2025-2026 CBABC Board of Directors presents a unique opportunity for members to take on leadership roles and shape the future of the organization. With positions ranging from Second Vice-President to Directors-at-large, there are diverse opportunities for professionals to contribute meaningfully to the legal community in British Columbia.
By participating in this election, members can ensure that the Board reflects the geographic and demographic diversity of the province. The structured leadership progression, particularly for the Second Vice-President role, offers a clear path for professional growth and development within the organization.
Prospective candidates are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and submit their nominations by April 2, 2025. This is a pivotal moment to make a lasting impact on the CBABC and the broader legal community. For more information, visit the CBABC website at https://www.cbabc.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What positions are available in the 2025-2026 CBABC Board of Directors?
The available positions include Second Vice-President, Young Lawyers Representative, and four Directors-at-large.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Young Lawyers Representative position?
Eligibility is based on age, years of practice, or current leadership roles, ensuring representation for early-career lawyers.
What is the time commitment for Board members?
Members are expected to attend two in-person day-long meetings, five half-day virtual meetings, and bi-monthly 90-minute virtual committee meetings.
How do I submit my nomination?
Submit a nomination form and a 750-word election statement by April 2, 2025. Up to two nominators may also provide 250-word messages of support by April 9, 2025.
When will the election take place?
The election will occur during the Provincial Council meeting on May 3, 2025, with candidates having the opportunity to address the Council before voting.
Where can I find more information about the nomination process?
Visit the CBABC website at https://www.cbabc.org for detailed information, nomination forms, and eligibility requirements.
