In Newfoundland and Labrador, our chapter is enthusiastic and growing. Recognizing the need for a strong and sharing corporate counsel network locally, we aim to have at least 2 social events a year and 2 substantive but casual sessions focusing on issues relevant to small law departments.

On April 7, 2005, our Corporate Counsel Luncheon at the Cellar Restaurant in St. John’s, NL featured a presentation by guest speaker John Fraser of Catalyst Consulting entitled “Five Proven Measures to Save 20% on Outside Counsel Costs.” Controlling costs and building effective relationships with outside counsel are important issues for law departments today, so this was a highly successful event.

In May 2005, our chapter met and made representations to the Law Society of Newfoundland & Labrador on the effects of a proposed transaction fee levy on our chapter members. The chapter report was contained in the CBA submission to the Law Society on this matter, and was circulated to our members by email.

We are delighted that national as well as local and regional firms have expressed an interest in presenting to our Chapter and look forward to an informative and exciting year ahead.

In particular, we invite all CCCA members from all across Canada join us for the CCCA 18th Annual Meeting Conference right here in St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, August 2006. You’ll find the warmest reception possible and a beautiful place to learn and grow!

Please contact me with any ideas or suggestions.

Janis C. Byrne (Chapter President)
Corporate Counsel

Penney Group
1309 Topsail Road
P.O. Box 8274, Stn. A
St. John's, NL A1B 3N4
jbyrne@pennecon.com