Statement

My name is Ryan Krushelnitzky. I am putting forward my name as a candidate for the upcoming Bencher election because I want to be of service to the public.

I believe in, and want to help maintain, a strong, independent Law Society, that stands up for the rule of law. The rule of law is a fundamental pillar of our democracy, and is something that require the legal professional’s vigilance and protection. A strong, independent bar is essential for a functioning legal system, that provides access to justice for all.

The bar’s independence is a privilege. The Law Society should remain an impartial and non-partisan regulator, dedicated to upholding high standards of competence, professionalism, integrity, and public service through a focused and principled approach to discipline.
A Bencher’s primary responsibility is to protect the public interest through fair, effective, proportionate, and transparent regulation, informed by a practical understanding of the profession.

I have been practicing in the civil litigation and arbitration fields since I was called to the bar in 2010. Before starting my practice, I was fortunate enough to be employed as a Clerk at the Supreme Court of Canada. I’ve appeared before all levels of Alberta Court, and in front of various arbitral tribunals.

I have a B.Sc. and LLB from the University of Alberta and a Ph.D. from Queen’s University in Kingston. I’m a partner in the Litigation Group at Field LLP, where I have a rewarding practice acting for various kinds of clients on challenging matters.

I am also active in legal scholarship and education. I am a Term Lecturer teaching law to engineering students at the University of Alberta. I have been an instructor at the Osgoode Hall Law School Certificate in Construction Law.

My various roles have taught me to listen carefully, assess competing positions fairly, work through complex issues, and make principled decisions grounded in evidence and law. My experience provides me insight into the systemic issues that confront the bar: in terms of access to justice, the disruption of AI, and other challenges faced by the bar.

If elected, I will bring independence of judgment, practical experience, careful analysis, and a commitment to respectful and principled decision-making. I would be honoured to have the support of my colleagues.