Victoria Smith could have earned her law degree, entirely, closer to home.

But crossing the pond to study in Wales was just too enticing.

And graduating from a unique program that partners Trent U with Swansea U will, she says, ultimately make her a better lawyer. She tells us how.

Professor Devin Penner would agree. We speak with the coordinator of the program at his office in Trent University.

And we introduce a new segment, and expert to the show whose namesake says it all. Indeed, Professor Glossary - (yes, our tongue is firmly planted in cheek, here) – will provide clear definitions of some confusing legal terms.

Music for our show comes to us from artists – and Kawartha Lakes residents! – Stella Panacci and Sean Jamieson.

When we set out to create this show one year ago, we wanted it to be more than just a list of lessons and tips about the law. We wanted it to be about community - our community - and the role the law plays in our lives. This special end-of-year episode, with its audio montage of highlights from episodes in our first season, does, we believe, reflect this commitment. So, while you’ll certainly hear from legal experts from Wards Lawyers, you’ll also hear from neighbours and leaders who share your concerns and interests and passions – and commitment to our community and the people who call it home.

So, please think of this show as your show. And know that we welcome your input and suggestions as we look forward to bringing you Season 2 of Wards Legal Matters in 2025.

Theme music comes to you via two of those neighbours we mentioned. The wonderfully-talented Sean Jamieson and Stella Panacci.

Most of us don’t typically dive into learning its nuances and complexities (and legal implications) until we absolutely have to – shortly after that loved one has passed and we have to carry out their wishes.

If you’ve been named an executor, it’s a big responsibility. But it can be made smoother with a well-laid out Will. Stella Panacci, who shares her music for our show, joins us to also share her recent experience - its challenges, learning curves – with being an executor.

Lawyer Ryan O’Neill will tell us how to go about creating that easy-as-possible-to-carry-out Will for your executor. And Karissa Ward, co-owner of Wards Lawyer, and a specialist in estate planning, explains why waiting until your golden years to write a Will should not be a thing.

Theme music for this episode is by, yup, Stella Panacci.

It comes with a whole lot of emotion – from anger to sorrow to despair. And when there are children in the equation of a looming separation, it takes all those painful feelings to another level.

So, ensuring there’s a sound plan post separation is paramount. For the parents, but especially for the children.

Law clerk Sam Drebit explains why it’s important that a legal expert help to lay out that co-parenting plan, which may include everything from dentist appointments to introducing new partners.

It’s equally important for those uncoupling parents to first learn how to best manage the inevitable roller coaster of emotions before they sit down to finalize the legal piece of their separation. Here, too, it’s imperative to consult an expert – like Lisa Greci, a registered clinical social worker who offers some sound advice for parents entering this life transition.

And Maria Francis, Director of First Impressions with Wards Lawyers, tells us why she chose to live in Kawartha Lakes.

Music for the show written and performed by Stella Panacci and Sean Jamieson.

We like to think of our law firm as a sturdy and reliable ship that can navigate even the roughest waters, charting a sound path for our clients and their legal needs.

We can’t achieve this, of course, without a great crew. And that requires careful recruitment of people with that “all hands on deck, always” attitude.

In this episode, we introduce you to two of our newest crew members, lawyers Golda Greenspoon and Justin Broomfield.

Over coffee – at Lindsay’s coolest coffee spot, Kindred Coffee Bar - Golda and Justin tell host Denis Grignon of the path they charted to a career in law and why their ultimate destination was with Wards Lawyers.

And senior family law clerk Gabrielle Fisher tells us why she long ago chose Kawartha Lakes to be her home.

Music for our show provided by Sean Jamieson and Stella Panacci.