Statement

My name is Michael Bates, and I am asking for your support in this year’s Bencher election.

Giving back to the profession and community we serve has always been important to me. At this point in my career, I believe I can contribute meaningfully to our independence and self-governance and be effective in helping the profession navigate various challenges we face. I am willing and able to put in the work.

Over the last 23 years I have advocated for clients from all walks of life in complex matters including as counsel on 13 cases in the Supreme Court of Canada. I have been an active member and vocal advocate for Legal Aid Alberta and have made significant pro bono contributions as counsel for the Criminal Trial Lawyers’ Association and Criminal Defence Lawyers Association in public inquiries, freedom of information appeals, and two Supreme Court of Canada interventions.

I have regularly volunteered on various court and Alberta Justice committees, Canadian Bar Association and criminal lawyer association executives and committees, LESA courses, Student Legal Assistance, and University of Calgary Law classes, including 16 years coaching the Alberta Court of Appeal Moot. I was appointed King’s Counsel in 2024.

Away from the law, my wife of 25 years and I have raised 4 amazing young adults; coaching sports and supporting their activities along the way. I recently completed 6 years on the Board of Hockey Alberta gaining valuable experience on a sophisticated professional Board in province-wide governance, regulatory and disciplinary roles. As Governance Committee Chair, I was directly involved in the Board’s successful guidance of the CEO through the uniquely difficult times of a global pandemic and the public reckoning and restructuring of Hockey Canada.

Through all these experiences I have learned that change is often difficult, but necessary, for an organization to perform well. I have learned to fairly consider and even advocate unpopular positions while still working to find consensus. And I have learned not to search for things to fix where none are broken.

I welcome the opportunity, if elected, to continue to learn while serving in the important role of Bencher.