The Equity Ombudsperson

The Law Society of Alberta established the Office of the Equity Ombudsperson to provide confidential advice, information and assistance to lawyers, articling students and support staff working in the legal profession on issues of discrimination or harassment by lawyers.

The goal of the equity ombudsperson is to educate people working in law firms about discrimination and harassment in the workplace, and to assist in resolving related problems. Talking to the equity ombudsperson does not eliminate other options such as filing a formal complaint with the LSA or the Human Rights Commission or undertaking a civil action.

The equity ombudsperson serves law firms and individuals working in the legal profession by:

• establishing workplace policies regarding harassment, parental leave, and alternative work schedules,
• providing educational seminars about discrimination and harassment,
• talking confidentially about particular problems,
• discussing complaints and address issues,
• developing an understanding of the firm’s obligations, potential liability and options, and
• finding information on other resources, such as counselling.

Model Equity Policies for Law Firms

Frequently Asked Questions

What is discrimination?

Discrimination includes unwelcome comments or actions that relate to a individual’s personal attributes: race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, marital or family status, physical or mental disability, age, sex or sexual orientation. Discrimination means that a person or group is disadvantaged because of a distinction relating to these personal attributes that limits access to opportunities, benefits or advantages available to others.

What is harassment?

Harassment includes unwelcome comments or actions that might reasonably be expected to cause insecurity, discomfort, offence or humiliation to another person. Harassment applies to a range of behaviour and may include name calling, insulting or vindictive behaviour, demands for sexual favours or unjustified criticism.

Is my call to the equity ombudsperson confidential?

Yes. The Rules of the Law Society require that the equity ombudsperson keep all discussions confidential. All contacts with the ombudsperson's office are confidential whether by telephone, fax or in person. The equity ombudsperson is independent of the Law Society of Alberta and reports only anonymous statistical information.

Does a call to the equity ombudsperson mean that I have reported this incident to the Law Society of Alberta?

No. The equity ombudsperson is exempt from reporting requirements under the Code of Professional Conduct, except with respect to the misappropriation of funds.

If I call, will I still have a say in what is done?

Yes. The equity ombudsperson will only act after discussions and a full review of the options available.

Who is the equity ombudsperson?

The equity ombudsperson is Jocelyn Frazer.

Please leave a confidential voice message at any time:
Office of the Equity Ombudsperson
Telephone: 1-888-229-4769 (toll free)
Fax: 403-228-1728
email Jocelyn Frazer

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