Experience criminal law beyond the textbooks.
From Crime & Cheese to prison tours and guest speakers, our events give students the chance to learn, ask questions, and connect with the criminal law community. Check out what we’ve been up to — and what’s coming next!
Hockey Canada Panel Series
In July 2025, Justice Maria Carroccia acquitted five former Hockey Canada players of sexual assault, stating the prosecution failed to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. This series includes multiple different panels who engage in critical discussions on hockey culture and systemic accountability, prosecution policies and evidentiary challenges, and defence perspectives and ethical considerations.
October 22, 2025
A conversation with Dr. Martine Dennie, Associate Professor Brandon Trask, and Dr. Jay Johnson, exploring the intersections of hazing and hockey culture, prosecutorial standards, and more.
November 19, 2025
A candid discussion with seasoned defence lawyers offering their insights and reflections on the Hockey Canada trial.
TBD
A third and final panel with speakers to be confirmed at a later date.
Stony Mountain Institution Tours
TOUR 1 SCHEDULED THURSDAY NOVEMBER 13 8:00AM - 12:00PM (LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE).
Students tour Manitoba’s only federal penitentiary to gain firsthand exposure to prison life, inmate services, and institutional challenges. These visits provide future lawyers with valuable insight into the realities of incarceration and sentencing.
Crime & Cheese
Our signature networking event brings together students and lawyers in a relaxed, social setting. With appetizers, games like networking bingo, and plenty of conversation, students form meaningful connections that often lead to mentorship and career opportunities.
Day in the Life of Crown & Defence
A panel featuring Crown and Defence lawyers who share candid insights about their work, challenges, and career paths. Students have the chance to ask questions and gain a realistic perspective on criminal practice in Manitoba.
Legal Aid Manitoba Lunch (Co-Hosted with Family Law Group)
Over pizza, students hear from Legal Aid Manitoba lawyers about articling opportunities, career paths, and the experience of serving vulnerable communities. This event gives students a practical look at legal aid’s essential role in criminal and family law.
Judge Talks
An intimate session with a guest Judge, joined by a Crown prosecutor and defence lawyer, exploring current issues in criminal law. Past discussions have focused on youth in the criminal justice system, where students learned how the justice system balances accountability with rehabilitation in cases involving young people.