Puri and Kyle, along with other award recipients, will be recognized for their outstanding career achievements and contributions to their communities at the annual Law Society Awards ceremony, which will be held virtually, on May 26.
Poonam Puri
The Law Society Medal is awarded to selected lawyers who have made a significant contribution to the profession. The award is given for outstanding service within the profession, whether in the area of practice, in the academic sphere, or in some other professional capacity where the service is in accordance with the highest ideals of the legal profession. It may be awarded for devotion to professional duties over a long term or for a single outstanding act of service.
"It is important that we publicly acknowledge those who bring distinction and honour to our professions," said Law Society Treasurer Teresa Donnelly. "In doing so, we recognize the contributions they have made, while identifying them as role models to other members, colleagues and stakeholders, and reaffirming the public's confidence and trust in the legal professions."
Puri, is one of Canada's most influential legal scholars. Her research has led to significant policy and regulatory reform. She is a thoughtful professor and generous mentor to law students and young lawyers. Her trailblazing pro bono efforts to improve access to justice led to the establishment of Osgoode Hall Law School's Investor Protection Clinic, the first of its kind in Canada.
Kyle has dedicated her entire career to public service. She is Ontario's first female Assistant Deputy Attorney General, Criminal Law Division. An inspirational leader, she is an agent of change in the development and modernization of criminal law and the administration of justice in the province of Ontario.
The awards presented in May are: The Law Society Medal, The Laura Legge Award, The William J. Simpson Distinguished Paralegal Award, The J. Shirley Denison Award and The Lincoln Alexander Award which was expanded to include paralegals in its eligibility criteria this year.
To view the full announcement, visit https://lso.ca/news-events/news/latest-news-2021/law-society-announces-2021-award-recipients.