Eugene Meehan

Embarking on my academic journey, I first embraced the scholarly halls of the University of Edinburgh, where I completed my Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.). This foundation paved the way for an exciting venture abroad, as I was honored with a Commonwealth Scholarship that propelled me to McGill University in Canada for my Master of Laws (LL.M.). Immersing myself in the vibrant Québécois culture, I inadvertently entertained the locals with my unique blend of French, tinged with a Celtic accent. This charming linguistic twist often led people to mistake me for a native of Quebec's far north, with some even guessing I hailed from the remote region of Abitibi Temiscamingue.

My academic odyssey continued with a return to the realm of legal education. I pursued a second LL.B. at the University of Ottawa, followed by a Doctorate in Civil Law, marking my return to McGill University. This journey through the corridors of higher education was not just about gathering degrees; it was a pilgrimage of knowledge and self-discovery.

The winds of opportunity then guided me westward to Edmonton, where I embraced the role of a Law Professor at the University of Alberta. My eight-year tenure in Western Canada was a tapestry of professional growth and exploration. Here, I not only imparted legal wisdom but also honed my own legal skills, articling and practicing law with the esteemed firm Parlee McLaws LLP (as it is known today).

My academic and professional path took yet another turn when I rejoined the University of Ottawa, this time as a Law Professor and Director of Graduate Studies. It was during this chapter of my career that Chief Justice Lamer recognized my potential and appointed me as his first Executive Legal Officer. This role at the Supreme Court was both a privilege and a pinnacle in my legal journey.

Eventually, the academic sphere gave way to a broader legal horizon. I ventured into the dynamic world of a national law firm. For over a quarter of a century, I have dedicated myself to the practice of appellate law. Since 2012, I have had the distinct pleasure of contributing my expertise to a specialized boutique law firm. This professional tapestry, woven with diverse experiences and rich in learning, has been a fulfilling and endlessly fascinating journey through the landscape of law.