Paula D. Hale

Practice Description

Paula understands the role of government in society and brings this understanding to her administrative law practice. In her practice, she regularly represents a number of provincial agencies and professional regulatory bodies. She acts in a range of roles including general counsel, prosecuting counsel, or independent counsel, as required.

Paula’s approach to practice is one founded on the belief that effective advocacy for her clients does not require hostility or incivility for its own sake. She is recognized by her peers as engaged, fair and devoted to her clients.

Background

Before practicing law, Paula enjoyed a successful fifteen-year career in public sector roles in operational, legislative planning and policy environments. Paula worked both for the British Columbia and Federal governments before working at the Alberta Ministry of Health, where she worked in the Ministry’s Legal and Legislative Branch. At the Ministry of Health she gained a broad exposure to health policy issues, professional regulation and the legislative planning and drafting process.

Professional Activities

• 2015 – Present, Member variously a member of the Health Law, Administrative Law and Privacy Law Sections of the Canadian Bar Association
• 2012 – Present,  Member – Administrative Law Section, Canadian Bar Association

Recognition

• 2017 – Emergency Services Medal for Meritorious Service from the Alberta Lieutenant Governor in Council.
• 2008 – Recipient of the John Weir Memorial Scholarship in Law

Education & Call To The Bar

• 2012 – Admitted to Law Society of Alberta
• 2011 – J.D. – University of Alberta
• 2001 – MPA (Masters of Public Administration) – University of Victoria
• 1992 BSc. (with distinction) – University of Victoria

In Her Own Words

One of the things I like the most about my work is that it is a very practical area of the law. It is important work that has a very direct impact for regulators, for those regulated, and to the broader public receiving services from regulated professionals. There is a public interest aspect to this area of law, but it also has very real and tangible impacts on people’s lives.

I also enjoy the stakeholders involved in this area of law as they are engaged and passionate about what they do. This contributes to the high standards and attention to detail in all aspects of our work.

Away From The Office

When not at work Paula enjoys time with her family, especially outdoors hiking and skiing. She volunteers with the Search & Rescue Dog Association of Alberta (SARDAA), which provides trained search dog services to police and fire agencies in cases of lost or missing persons. While her own German Shepherd is now retired from active duty, Paula continues to volunteer and provides pro bono legal services in the volunteer search and rescue sector.