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Queen's University
 

Faculty of Law

Professor Don Stuart Honoured by Kingston Criminal Defence Lawyers' Association

bakerAward.jpg
Photo by Paula Haskin

Don Stuart is presented the 2007 Phil Baker Award by Dan Scully, Law ’91, local defence lawyer and former KCDLA President, at the Radisson Harbourfront in Kingston on December 8, 2007.

Professor Don Stuart was presented the 2007 Phil Baker Award by the Kingston Criminal Defence Lawyers' Association (KCDLA) at a dinner on December 8, 2007. The award recognizes Stuart's strong efforts in defending the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and by extension defence counsel, in the face of judicial and governmental pressure for harsher crime penalties.

"In a year that saw increasing pressure from a ‘law and order' government seeking easy votes, as well as very critical public comments by members of the judiciary, including sitting members of the Ontario Court of Appeal, there is a real concern that basic rights guaranteed by the Charter will be constricted," said Matt Hodgson, Law ‘96, KCDLA President.

Stuart has made these concerns known by commenting in the media and writing the article "Criminal Justice is Better Balanced under the Charter" in the Law Times.

Named after P.E.D. (Phil) Baker, a long-time Kingston judge, the award is given to a person who, while displaying integrity, compassion, and good humour, has made a significant contribution to the administration of criminal justice in the Kingston community. In the case of this year's recipient, the contributions are more widespread.

"In defending the Charter protections afforded an accused, arguing for increased funding for Legal Aid, and providing a cogent public argument against all too easy political pandering law and order legislation, Professor Stuart has made a significant contribution not only to the administration of justice in Kingston, but to that of Canada as a whole," said Hodgson.

"Defence counsel play a vital role in achieving justice and often work under difficult and under-appreciated circumstances," said Stuart in his acceptance speech. "I am honoured to receive this award."

Kingston, Ontario, Canada. K7L 3N6. 613.533.2000