I've been reading/listening to a number of tales of how people chose law school or chose an area of practice. At an articling interview I was asked "Why does an ex-cop was to work criminal defence? Are you concerned that it might be uncomfortable?" 1/11

I responded fully: I grew up in a Metis community. We aspired to one day use the word "poor" to describe ourselves rather than phrases like "living in poverty". My dad was an abusive dick who only stopped when I, the oldest of 4, got big enough to stop him. 2/11

My grades in school were almost perfect and my earliest desire was to be a lawyer. It was a pipe dream and I knew it, we could never afford that. So I did the closest thing I could afford: joined the Mounties. 3/11

I spent 14 years policing indigenous communities like the one I was from. I saw people dealing with huge issues, struggling to end the cycle they were in, people dealing with trauma they didn't have the tools to deal with. 4/11

Often the only people trying to get accused persons help to address their issues were busy AF defence lawyers. (don't mistake me, the people working in the system did as much as they could but their focus was often elsewhere) 5/11

On the job I was shot at, stabbed, attacked with every manner of object you could imagine until I got to the point where I was unable to deal with the trauma (professional and childhood) and I found myself on the wrong end of a domestic violence charge. 6/11

Before court was done I had left the RCMP, engaged in therapy (still attending), enrolled in school, and tried to make amends for my wrongs. Long story short (little late for that, huh?): I was sentenced to 90 days jail (deferred so I could finish my school year). 7/11

My family lawyer contacted a criminal lawyer friend who strongly suggested that I appeal sentence. The appeal was successful, a conditional discharge was entered (since discharged).

Back to the original question: why does an ex-cop want to work criminal defence? 8/11

Criminal defence was my childhood dream. Criminal defence lawyers had (almost) always gained my admiration for the way they passionately and intelligently advocated for their clients. A criminal lawyer did his best to save my future. 9/11

I joined the Mounties to contribute to society every day. Policing didn't feel that way at the end. Lawyering might not feel that way eventually...but it feels that way now. I've heard that criminal defence should feel like a calling. It does. 10/11

I understand how hopeless moments of crisis can feel. If I can help someone find calm or hope in those moments, if I can help them get the best outcome possible, I'll be content. That's why I want to work criminal defence.

Not that any of you asked... /end