Statement of Principles

As a new call to the Ontario Bar, I am excited to embark on my legal career. I started Erin O'Rourke Law so that I can start my legal career by practicing authentically. After years of studying ways to increase access to justice, I am finally able to put that into practice. These Statements of Principles will help guide me and keep me accountable as I practice law. 

Statements

I recognize that I have benefited from the privileges of being a white, cis, enabled, heterosexual person;

I recognize that I have benefited from institutional support due to my privilege;

I understand that many others have been marginalized by the same institutions which have supported me;

I understand that I am a settler on Turtle Island and as such, I have a responsibility to respond to the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, specifically to Action 27 which includes ensuring lawyers are trained in intercultural competency, conflict resolution, human rights, and anti-racism;

I recognize the intersectional nature of systems of discrimination;

I recognize that being a member of the Law Society of Ontario and holding a license to practice law grants me additional rights and responsibilities.

Commitments

I will challenge racism, systemic discrimination, microaggressions, and other forms of discrimination when I see them;

I will actively seek out a diversity of opinions by engaging in different discussion groups, CPD events, seminars/webinars, podcasts, books and conversations with peers and in the community;

I will hold space for other members of the Bar and the community by referring thoughtfully and appropriately, listening carefully, and supporting diverse voices;

I commit to volunteering in my community;

I commit to donating to organizations that work to promote equality, diversity and inclusion;

I will acknowledge when I make errors or missteps and actively listen to those who correct me;

I will update my Statement of Principles as I learn and grown;

I commit to representing my clients fairly, taking into consideration the unique set of life experiences of each client.