This lecture series was initiated in 2015 to address legal issues of public concern and to unite Memorial University and the provincial legal community in a venture seeking to examine the public interest.

The Francis Forbes Annual Law Lecture is co-sponsored by Memorial University, the Law Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador.

2026 Francis Forbes Lecture:

Lessons I Have Learned from the Refugees I Have Represented: You Can Never Take the Rule of Law for Granted

Date: March 17 | 7PM
Venue: Bruneau Centre (IIC 2001)

Join us for the Chief Justice Sir Francis Forbes Annual Law Lecture featuring Lorne Waldman, one of Canada’s most eminent immigration lawyers. Drawing on decades of advocacy, Waldman reflects on refugee representation and the enduring importance of safeguarding the rule of law.

Abstract:
In recent times, immigration has dominated the news cycle in Canada, the United States, and Europe. We are told immigrants are criminals who threaten our security, or are responsible for the high cost of housing and the shortage of doctors. The reality, however, is that immigrants are, for the most part, hard-working individuals who contribute to Canadian society. They all have their stories. Most did not choose to leave their homes, but persecution and economic necessity compelled them to do so. 

I have shared the stories of thousands of people from all walks of life in my forty plus years as an immigration lawyer. I have heard stories of immense courage, sacrifice, and heartbreak. My clients have taught me the true meaning of solidarity. Their stories illustrate both the best and the worst of humanity. We can learn a great deal from their experiences-about human nature, the fragility of the rule of law, and the need for accountability. I propose to share some of their stories with you and, in the process, hope that together we can learn lessons that we can apply today to defend the values we hold dear.

In dedication to Sir Francis Forbes

The lecture series is dedicated to the memory of Sir Francis Forbes, who served as the Chief Justice in the Supreme Court of Judicature in Newfoundland from 1816 to 1822.

Forbes instrumental in shaping the early face of constitutionalism and the rule of law in Newfoundland. He was appointed Chief Justice in the Supreme Court of Judicature in Newfoundland in 1816 and was to serve in this position until 1822. Thereafter he served as an adviser in the Colonial Office in London, followed by a distinguished career as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in New South Wales.

Forbes was powerfully influential in furthering constitutionalism and the rule of law in Newfoundland.

His decisions were fearless in the face of strong executive opposition, challenging and checking the arbitrary use of power by the governor and his subordinates, recognizing the right of residents to own property, and strengthening the position of the Supreme Court as a general appeal court for the colony. Also notable was his careful blending in judgements of local custom with English common law to achieve a legal regime that was adapted to social conditions in the colony.