On September 28th, I had the privilege of attending the Law Society of UTSC X BioSA Health Law panel, an event that provided invaluable insights into the dynamic and challenging field of health law. The panel featured four distinguished speakers: Elyse Sunshine, co-founder of the health and regulatory law firm Rosen Sunshine LLP; Sonia Nijjar, a medical malpractice lawyer at Neinstein LLP; Sandra Zisckind, managing partner and co-founder of Diamond and Diamond Lawyers LLP; and Shahroze Zafar, former BioSA president and current Osgoode Hall law student. Listening to these professionals share their experiences, insights, and advice was nothing short of inspiring, solidifying my growing interest in law and its capacity to create meaningful change in people's lives.
One of the first topics the panelists addressed was how to approach a career in health law. Sonia Nijjar emphasized the importance of aligning one's passion with the issues and people they wish to serve, stressing the need to think about the clients you want to represent and the kind of legal work that truly matters to you. This resonated deeply with me, as law is not just about abstract legal principles—it's about real people and real problems. Shahroze Zafar added that joining relevant organizations and listening to experienced professionals in the field can help young aspiring lawyers understand the vast opportunities that exist within health law.
The panelists also shared advice they would give their younger selves, which served as a reminder that the path to a legal career is often far from linear. Elyse Sunshine underscored the need for total commitment to the profession, stating that law is not a 9-to-5 job but a lifestyle that requires constant mental engagement. Meanwhile, Sandra Zisckind's advice was refreshingly straightforward: get into law school, get good grades, and don’t stress too much about undergraduate majors or LSAT scores. She noted that no one cares about these once you’re practicing and that the most important thing is to stay focused and take the path of least resistance.
As the panelists discussed the skills necessary for success in health law, the conversation revealed the unique demands of the field. Sandra emphasized the need for empathy, fierce client advocacy, and strong communication skills, particularly in health law litigation. Elyse highlighted the ever-changing nature of health law, where professionals must come up with creative solutions while maintaining respect for both clients and regulatory bodies. Sonia, in particular, stressed the importance of strong writing skills—being able to distill complex legal and medical issues into clear, compelling arguments can make all the difference in this field.
What truly inspired me, however, were the deeply personal and moving stories the panelists shared about their most rewarding experiences. Shahroze Zafar recounted a research project on head injuries and prison reform that shaped his desire to represent individuals who often fall through the cracks in the legal system. Sonia Nijjar shared her first major win—a case in which she advocated for tenants facing eviction in the Parkdale area. Despite the odds being stacked against her, she won, one of the few successful cases involving N12 end-of-lease evictions in Ontario. For her, knowing she had made a lasting impact on these tenants’ lives solidified her belief in the importance of advocacy in the legal profession.
Elyse Sunshine’s story was remarkable. She recounted a case in which she represented a nurse who had developed a substance abuse problem after experiencing severe trauma and was at risk of losing her nursing license. Elyse helped her client enter a treatment program and eventually return to nursing. Ten years later, that same client had become the head of a department at a major Toronto hospital. This kind of long-term impact is rare in many professions, but in law, you have this ability.
Sandra Zisckind’s most rewarding experience involved advocating for a family from Chad who faced insurmountable challenges after the tragic loss of their father in a car accident. In the midst of this devastating situation, Sandra encountered a security problem that threatened to shut down the entire case. She vividly described how, on paper, it appeared to be a loss, but she was resolute in her belief that "you are not done until you are done." Her unwavering commitment to her clients fueled her determination to secure compensation for the family, reinforcing her conviction that everyone deserves their day in court. Sandra's story was a powerful reminder of the resilience required in the legal profession and how, despite difficult circumstances, the potential for meaningful change remains ever-present.
These stories highlighted the profound impact that legal professionals can have on individuals and communities. For me, this was one of the most eye-opening and inspiring aspects of the event. Hearing about these cases not only reaffirmed my interest in pursuing a legal career but also deepened my understanding of how law can be a tool for justice and positive change. The passion, commitment, and empathy displayed by the panelists were a testament to the kind of lawyer I aspire to become—someone who is deeply invested in their clients' well-being and who strives to make a tangible difference in their lives.
The panelists offered a candid glimpse into the day-to-day realities of practicing health law, showcasing both the challenges and the rewards of the profession. Sandra, who oversees 16 offices across Canada, characterized her daily routine as meticulously scheduled, noting that no two days ever feel the same. Elyse elaborated on the delicate balance required to juggle hearings, cross-examinations, and case preparation, all while effectively managing her time. Sonia shared that her weeks are often filled with client management and medical literature reviews, with the nature of her work varying significantly based on the specific legal issues at hand. Shahroze, still navigating the rigors of law school, provided a unique perspective, emphasizing the intensity of his academic experience and the vital importance of establishing professional networks early in one's career.
A recurring theme throughout the panel was that law is not a profession for the faint-hearted. While some aspects of the legal "hustle" can be learned, certain traits, like confidence and resilience, are essential for those pursuing litigation. Sandra, a natural litigator, firmly believes that the ability to advocate fiercely for clients is something one is born with. However, Elyse and Sonia both stressed that there are many different areas within health law, and with dedication and hard work, anyone can find their niche.
The discussion also touched on the difficulties of balancing workload and personal life, especially in high-pressure environments. While Sandra spoke of the need to be efficient and avoid time-wasting activities, Elyse admitted that achieving work-life balance can be challenging, especially at large firms with high billable hour expectations. Sonia shared her experience of working relentlessly during a 12-week trial, a period she referred to as "paying her dues." However, she reassured the audience that over time, the workload becomes more manageable as skills improve and one becomes more efficient.
The event also addressed the toxic environments that many women in law have faced, particularly in earlier decades. Sandra recounted the blatant sexism she encountered while articling, including being asked if she planned to get pregnant, and facing harassment in the form of condescending nicknames. While the situation has improved significantly, the panelists acknowledged that there is still room for progress, particularly when it comes to promoting diversity and inclusion within law firms.
Attending this panel was an eye-opening experience, one that has left a lasting impression on me. Hearing the panelists' stories about—victories against the odds, long-term client success, and navigating the challenges of the legal profession—has only solidified my passion for law. It was inspiring to witness their commitment to their clients and to justice, and I left the event feeling more motivated than ever to pursue a career in law, knowing that it is a profession where dedication and empathy can truly change lives.
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