News Release

New Children's Lawyer Appointed

July 29, 2008

News

Debra L. Stephens has been appointed as Ontario’s new Children’s Lawyer, effective August 1, 2008.

Called to the Bar in 1982, her practice has focused on estate, trust and guardianship issues, specializing in estate administration and planning. She has also served as an agent for the Children’s Lawyer.

Stephens is a member of the Toronto Lawyers Association and the Ontario Bar Association, Family Law and Trusts and Estates Sections. She has been an adjunct professor with the University of Toronto Law School and Humber College, and has published works on estate and trust issues.

Stephens replaces Clare Burns, who has served with distinction as the Children’s Lawyer since January 2003.

Quotes

Debra Stephens has had an impressive legal career in a broad range of family law issues,” said Attorney General Chris Bentley. “Her expertise will serve her well in her new role leading an organization devoted to protecting the rights of children in Ontario.”

Quick Facts

• The Children’s Lawyer acts on behalf of children under the age of 18 in proceedings before the courts and tribunals in Ontario.
• Lawyers within the office represent children in various aspects of the law including child custody and access disputes, child protection proceedings, estate matters and civil litigation.

Learn More

Learn more about Ontario’s Children’s Lawyer.

Read about the McGuinty government’s many children’s programs and services.

Contacts

Sheamus Murphy
Minister's Office, 416-326-1785

Brendan Crawley
Communications Branch, 416-326-2210

Back to top