Joanna Weiss embarks on new challenges

July 1, 2023 - Swadron Associates wishes Joanna Weiss well as she begins the next phase of her career after seven years at the firm.

 

Joanna attended McMaster University in Hamilton, graduating with distinction with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy in 2007. She then enrolled in the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University in Halifax, where she obtained her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree with a Health Law and Policy Specialization designation. While at law school, Joanna served as a research assistant to Professor Sheila Wildeman examining the law of substitute consent as it relates to medical research. She also completed a term at Dalhousie Legal Aid Service, obtaining practical experience in diverse areas including disability and public interest law. In her third year, Joanna was awarded the Dugald Christie Memorial Bursary in Law for commitment to community service and social justice.

 

Following graduation from law school, Joanna completed her articles of clerkship with two firms of criminal defence lawyers before being called to the bar in Ontario in 2013. As a lawyer, Joanna acquired further experience in criminal defence, including a year in sole practice, participated in coroner’s inquests and developed particular expertise in the field of mental health law.

 

Joanna Weiss practiced with Swadron Associates from 2016 to 2023, becoming one of the foremost advocates for persons detained in psychiatric facilities and facing forced treatment.