Through hands-on experience, dedicated mentorship, and close collaboration with our teams, they will play a meaningful role in our work while building the skills and relationships that will shape their future in law.

See below for a complete listing:

New Brunswick

Articling Clerks

Fredericton

• Lauren Lipsett – University of New Brunswick
• Madeline Harquail – University of New Brunswick
• Olivier Robichaud LeBlanc – University of New Brunswick
• Tyler Hayward – University of New Brunswick

Moncton

• Gabrielle Guay – Université de Moncton
• Joel Girouard – Université de Moncton

Saint John

• Adam Young – University of New Brunswick
• Katie Gulliver – University of New Brunswick
• Will Chisholm – Dalhousie University

Summer Students

Fredericton

• Anna Petrie – University of New Brunswick
• Rachelle LeBlanc – Université de Moncton
• Jacqueline Kier – University of New Brunswick
• Sterling Simpson – University of New Brunswick

Moncton

• Anaïs Doiron – University of Ottawa
• Marie-Pier Boudreau-Savoie – Université de Moncton
• Mika Godin – Université de Moncton
• Aleksis Roy – Université de Moncton
• Emilie-Anne Chiasson – Université de Moncton

Saint John

• Chris Keyes – University of New Brunswick
• Hyeokbin Cho – University of Ottawa

St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador

Articling Clerks

• Chris Cleary – Dalhousie University
• Andrew Reid – University of New Brunswick
• Cassadie Stratton – University of New Brunswick

Summer Students

• Emma Calver – University of New Brunswick
• Abby Kelly – University of New Brunswick
• Connor Knight – Dalhousie University
• Serena Piercey – McGill University

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Articling Clerks

• Maggie Jardine – Dalhousie University
• Madeline Leckey – Dalhousie University
• Nicole Luis – University of New Brunswick
• Carleigh MacKenzie – Dalhousie University
• Roy Maianski – Dalhousie University
• Graeme Rankin – Dalhousie University

Summer Students

• Gabrielle Greener – Dalhousie University
• Rohin Minocha-McKenney – Dalhousie University
• Allison Dyer – University of New Brunswick
• Grace Fillmore – Osgoode Hall
• Sheri Ikladious – Dalhousie University
• Sophia Sanche – Dalhousie University
• Alyzéa Urgelles-Apostolakos – Dalhousie University
• John Vickery – Dalhousie University

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Articling Clerks

• Lise Charles – Dalhousie University
• Sheré Erwin – University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Summer Students

• Bradley Campbell – Bond University, Australia
• Casey Currie – University of New Brunswick
• Molly Kelly – University of New Brunswick
• Alex Ward – Queen’s University
• Daniel Thomas Godfrey – University of New Brunswick

The post Welcome to our 2026 Articling Clerks and Summer Students appeared first on Сox & Palmer.

Throughout more than four decades of legal practice, Victor has exemplified the highest ideals of the profession, combining legal excellence with a deep sense of social responsibility. Among his many contributions, Victor served as counsel in a landmark human rights case involving racial profiling by the Halifax Regional Police. The case not only resulted in a significant legal victory for former Olympic and professional boxer Kirk Johnson, but also led to the creation of the Kirk Johnson Scholarship, supporting students from North Preston. Since its establishment in 2003, the scholarship has benefited over 15 recipients and continues to serve as a lasting legacy of Victor’s dedication to social justice and educational opportunity.

Victor is widely respected for his leadership within Atlantic and national Jewish organizations, where he has worked tirelessly to foster community cohesion, preserve cultural heritage, and advocate for equity on both regional and national stages. His extensive volunteer service includes roles as president, vice‑chair, board member, and advisor across numerous philanthropic and community organizations.

Notably, Victor also served as President of the QEII Foundation, where he played a leading role in the Foundation’s Cancer Never Waits fundraising campaign. His ability to mobilize resources and inspire collective action has had a lasting impact on healthcare and community resilience in our province.

The CBA‑NS Community Service Award is a fitting recognition of Victor’s enduring leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to making our communities more inclusive and just. We are honoured to celebrate this well‑deserved achievement and proud to have Victor as a member of our firm.

Congratulations, Victor!

The post Victor Goldberg, KC Receives 2026 CBA‑NS Community Service Award appeared first on Сox & Palmer.

Published annually since 1997, The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory is widely regarded as a leading resource for identifying top legal talent across more than 60 practice areas. Rankings are based on extensive peer surveys, highlighting lawyers who are regarded as leaders in their field, preeminent within professional organizations, and noted for substantial acknowledgement by their colleagues.

For a complete listing of Cox & Palmer’s Lexpert-ranked lawyers for 2026, please see table below.

The post 73 Cox & Palmer Lawyers Recognized in the 2026 Canadian Legal Lexpert® Directory appeared first on Сox & Palmer.

Founded in 1950, the American College of Trial Lawyers is an invitation-only fellowship recognizing distinguished trial lawyers from the United States and Canada. Fellowship is exceptionally rare, extended to only a small percentage of trial lawyers who demonstrate the highest standards of advocacy, ethical conduct, professionalism, integrity, and collegiality.

Blair’s induction underscores his exceptional courtroom advocacy and commitment to excellence. He is a highly respected litigator whose practice spans trial and pre-trial representation, complex negotiations, and appearances before various levels of the judicial system.

Blair is regularly recognized by Best Lawyers in Canada and received his King’s Counsel designation in 2019.

Congratulations, Blair, on this this significant achievement!

The post Blair C. Fraser, KC Inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers appeared first on Сox & Palmer.

This prestigious appointment is awarded annually to a select group of lawyers who demonstrate exceptional service and outstanding contributions to the legal community. It highlights Amy and Harry’s professional integrity, extensive experience, and the strong regard in which they are held by both their clients and colleagues.

Amy has been recognized as a leading practitioner in Commercial Insurance Litigation, Health Care Law, Insurance Law, Personal Injury, and Professional Liability Law by The Best Lawyers in Canada and the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. She practices in the areas of litigation, insurance defence law, and professional regulation. Amy is the former Chair of the National Insurance Law Sub-Section for the Canadian Bar Association and is also Chair of the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee and is the EDI Partner on the Halifax Executive Committee for Cox & Palmer’s Halifax office.

Harry has been recognized as a leading practitioner in Administrative & Public Law, Class Action Litigation, Construction Law, Corporate & Commercial Litigation, Commercial Insurance Litigation, Insurance Law, Personal Injury Litigation, and Professional Malpractice Law by The Best Lawyers in Canada and the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. Harry’s litigation practice focuses primarily on health, medical, commercial, insurance, construction, and marine related matters.  Harry is a member of the Risk Management Association, Atlantic Chapter, the Marine Insurance Committee of the Canadian Maritime Law Association, the Canadian Board of Marine Underwriters, and the Nova Scotia Medical Legal Society.

Congratulations Amy and Harry!

The post Cox & Palmer Nova Scotia Lawyers Appointed to the King’s Counsel appeared first on Сox & Palmer.

In his new role, Patrick will work with the Halifax office’s lawyers and leadership team to expand market opportunities, strengthen client relationships and support the firm’s long-term growth strategy.

“We are thrilled to welcome Patrick to the firm. His deep relationships and understanding of the business community in Halifax and provincially will help identify new opportunities for growth and support our strategic priorities,” said Suzanne Rix, KC, Managing Partner of the Halifax, NS office.

Patrick’s leadership and experience in regional economic growth and strategic partnerships will contribute significantly to the firm’s continued growth. In his role, he will also provide counsel to junior lawyers to help build their practices and develop meaningful connections in the local market.

“With its strong reputation and commitment to client service, I am excited to begin this next chapter with Cox & Palmer,” said Patrick. “My experience as President and CEO of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce gave me valuable insight into the economic opportunities and challenges facing local businesses. I look forward to bringing that perspective to the firm as we help clients navigate change, identify opportunities and plan for the future.”

During his nearly 10-year tenure as President & CEO of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, Patrick championed advocacy efforts on behalf of more than 1,950 businesses in the Halifax Regional Municipality across 3 levels of government.  He founded and chaired the NS Business Labour Economic Coalition, supporting the development of a business recovery plan in response to the pandemic.  Prior to his role at the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, Patrick held marketing and general management positions in Toronto, Halifax and internationally, spanning both start-up and large organizations, and previously served as the CEO of Tourism Nova Scotia.

An active contributor to the local business community, Patrick has served on several boards, including the Advisory Board for the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University, the Mount Saint Vincent University Board of Governors Committee for Advancement and External Relations, the Bluenose Marathon Board of Directors, and is the current Chair of the TELUS Community Board.  He is Past Chair of the Canadian Global Cities Council, where his focus was on reducing barriers to trade between provinces.

The post Patrick Sullivan, Outgoing President and CEO of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce to Join Cox & Palmer appeared first on Сox & Palmer.

This episode of Cox & Palmer Presents is Atlantic Gateways, where Strategic Business Advisor and former NS Premier, Stephen McNeil, sits down with Joyce Carter, President & CEO of Halifax International Airport Authority to discuss how Halifax Stanfield enables connectivity for people, ideas, and commerce, linking our region to national and global networks.

From air service development and trade flows to tourism, talent attraction, and community impact, the conversation explores the airport’s strategic role in driving economic growth and resilience across Nova Scotia and the role it plays as Atlantic Canada’s gateway to the world.

In the video, you’ll hear timely insights on:

• How air connectivity helps local businesses scale beyond our borders.
• The importance of reliable routes for tourism, investment, and talent.
• Cargo logistics as a catalyst for Atlantic Canadian exporters.
• Collaboration across public and private sectors to unlock new opportunities.

About the Series:
Cox & Palmer Presents is an ongoing series of candid conversations with prominent business leaders shaping Atlantic Canada’s future. Hosted by our team and trusted advisors, we aim to bring real-world experience to today’s most important topics.

The post Cox & Palmer Presents: Atlantic Gateways appeared first on Сox & Palmer.

“These appointments reflect the leadership our new partners have shown, their shared dedication to outstanding client service, and their commitment to our continued growth in the province,” said G. Todd Stanley, KC, Managing Partner, St. John’s.

Neala Kielley practices primarily in labour and employment law, administrative law, human rights law, and litigation. She joined the firm as a summer student in 2017 and was called to the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar in February 2020. She earned her Juris Doctor from Dalhousie University and holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) with a focus in human resources from Memorial University. Deeply committed to her community, Neala joined the St. John Ambulance Board of Directors in June 2024.

Kyle Mercer is a business lawyer with a practice spanning real estate, corporate and commercial law, and emerging growth companies. Kyle earned his Juris Doctor from the University of New Brunswick and holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Co-operative) from Memorial University of Newfoundland. He was called to the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar in 2019. Kyle regularly instructs International Business Law at Memorial University and serves on the boards of several organizations, including the Building Owners & Managers Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador, Pleasant Manor Corporation, and Downtown St. John’s.

Brett M. K. Ludlow, who joined the firm following the merger with Benson Buffet last year, has a broad practice focused on real estate, personal injury, family law, civil litigation, and wills and estates. Brett holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New Brunswick and a law degree from the Saskatchewan College of Law and was admitted to the Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador Bars in 2009. He is actively involved in community fundraising and volunteers with organizations including the Cancer Care Foundation and animal welfare organizations.

“Each of these new partners has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to our clients. We are proud to recognize their contributions and look forward to the impact they will continue to make,” said George L. Cooper, KC, Chief Executive Officer & Partner.

The post Cox & Palmer Announces Three New Partners in Newfoundland & Labrador appeared first on Сox & Palmer.

The Government of Canada announced the judicial appointment in the following press release:

Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada announces judicial appointments in the province of Nova Scotia

December 16, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Justice Canada

The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, today announced the following appointments under the judicial application process established in 2016. This process emphasizes transparency, merit, and the diversity of the Canadian population, and will continue to ensure the appointment of jurists who meet the highest standards of excellence and integrity.

The Honourable Bryna D. Hatt, a Judge of the Provincial Court of Nova Scotia in Pictou, is appointed a Judge of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia in Pictou. Justice Hatt replaces Justice P.P. Rosinski (Halifax), who elected to become a supernumerary judge effective October 14, 2025. The Chief Justice will transfer Justice F. Hoskins (Pictou) into this vacancy. The vacancy is therefore located in Pictou.

Michelle M. Kelly, K.C., Partner at Cox & Palmer in Halifax, is appointed a Judge of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia in Bridgewater. Justice Kelly replaces Justice D.A. Jamieson (Halifax), who was appointed Associate Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia effective November 5, 2025. The Chief Justice will transfer Justice D. Rowe (Bridgewater) into this vacancy. The vacancy is therefore located in Bridgewater.

Quote:

“I wish Justices Hatt and Kelly every success as they take on their new roles. I am confident they will serve the people of Nova Scotia well as members of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia.”

— The Hon. Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Biographies

Justice Bryna D. Hatt was raised in Pictou County, Nova Scotia. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts, with joint Honours in Law in Society and Sociology from the University of New Brunswick, and a Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie University. She later earned a Master of Laws from Osgoode Law School, York University. She was called to the Nova Scotia bar in 2008.

Justice Hatt was appointed a Judge of the Provincial Court of Nova Scotia in 2023. She served on the All-Courts Technology Committee and Canadian Association of Provincial Court Judges National Committee on the Law. As a lawyer, she was actively involved in Canadian Barristers Association, in both the provincial and national sections, and was on the Nova Scotia Supreme Court Liaison Committee. She practiced in the areas of aboriginal law, labour and employment law and civil litigation. She was a certified Workplace Investigator and taught Business Law at St. F.X. University.

Justice Michelle M. Kelly, K.C., was born and raised in Prince Edward Island before she left to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree from Queen’s University in 2000 and her LLB from the University of New Brunswick in 2003. She was called to the Nova Scotia bar in 2004.

Justice Kelly articled with Cox Hansen O’Reilly Matheson (as it then was) and has spent her legal career as a litigator with that firm, now known as Cox & Palmer. She maintained a broad litigation practice, working on insurance defence matters, real property litigation, estate litigation, and construction litigation. She was appointed King’s Counsel in 2021 and became a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers in 2024.

Justice Kelly volunteered in her community with Alice House, an organization helping women and children flee intimate-partner violence and was the President of the Advisory Council on the Status of Women. She worked with the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society where she was President but also sat on various committees, including co-chairing the Gender Equity Committee. In 2023, she was named one of Canada’s Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers in the Changemaker category.

Justice Kelly is proudly raising a fierce and driven daughter with her husband, a proud Jamaican.

Quick Facts:

• Federal judicial appointments are made by the Governor General, acting on the advice of the federal Cabinet and recommendations from the Minister of Justice.
• The Judicial Advisory Committees across Canada play a key role in evaluating judicial applications. There are 17 Judicial Advisory Committees, with each province and territory represented.

The post Michelle Kelly, KC, appointed to the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia appeared first on Сox & Palmer.

Ben has built a successful commercial practice and is recognized in the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory as a leading practitioner in Corporate Commercial Law. He has contributed greatly to the firm’s success through his leadership roles, including serving as Chief Operating Officer at Cox & Palmer’s PEI offices and as a member of the firm’s Regional Board of Directors.

Ben is also committed to professional development, contributing to mentorship and recruitment efforts over the years. He is an active member of the Prince Edward Island business community through his involvement with Startup Zone, the Community Business Development Corporation’s Impact Loan Committee and as a co-owner of a leading Atlantic Canadian printing business, supporting local entrepreneurship and economic growth across the island.

“Ben’s recognition as a Lexpert Rising Star is a testament to his hard work, talent, and the high standard of service he provides to clients every day,” said Alanna Taylor, KC, Managing Partner for Charlottetown. “We are pleased to celebrate this achievement and grateful for Ben’s continued leadership within Cox & Palmer and throughout our community.”

Ben was formally recognized on November 20 at the annual Rising Stars Gala Dinner in Toronto.

Congratulations, Ben!

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