Barbara J. Stratton KC

Repeatedly recognized as a leading lawyer in the areas of medical malpractice and estate planning, clients turn to Barbara for strategic advice when faced with health law matters or wills and estates disputes. She is an expert litigator on professional negligence matters, accomplished mediator in the areas of wills and estates and family law, and a steadfast advocate for her clients. Consistently bringing her expertise to the forefront of conflict resolution, Barbara has been named one of Canada's leading lawyers in the areas of Healthcare, Medical Negligence, Professional Liability and Estate Planning.

In addition to maintaining a busy litigation and mediation practice, Barbara also serves as Managing Partner for Bennett Jones' Edmonton office. Her extensive court experience speaks volumes, having appeared before all levels of Court in Alberta and various administrative panels, public inquiries and professional regulatory bodies, including the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta. She is also a proud alumna of the Mediation and Conflict Management Seminar with Harvard Law School and is committed to continuous professional development to serve her clients better.

Health Law

As co-head of Bennett Jones' health law practice, Barbara represents physicians and surgeons in civil litigation, hospital and College complaints. Recognized as a leading lawyer for medical negligence matters, she represents defendants and is a top choice for healthcare professionals requiring assistance to resolve health-related legal disputes.

Wills and Estate Litigation

Barbara not only assists families facing disputes over wills and estate-related matters. Her focus includes issues pertaining to personal directives, enduring powers of attorney and family maintenance or support claims. Through proactive advice and mitigation strategies, Barbara aims to reduce the risk of claims made against an estate. When disputes arise, she leans heavily into alternative dispute remedies, has a proven track record acting as a mediator and is able to help family members reach resolutions outside of the courtroom.

Employment Law, Privacy Law and Human Rights Breaches

Employers and employees alike rely on Barbara's strategic advice in health-related employment law matters, including terminations, privacy and human rights. Her experience includes representing employers in court and successfully defending claims made to the Human Rights Commission and Privacy Commission. She also assists employees on a variety of matters including job loss, human rights and privacy breaches, and settlement negotiations.

Mediation

Barbara is an experienced mediator in the areas of wills and estates disputes, family matters, professional liability and personal injury cases. She is known for her ability to facilitate effective communication and negotiation between parties, striving to reach mutually beneficial resolutions without the need for prolonged litigation. She employs a compassionate yet strategic approach to help parties find common ground and resolve their conflicts.

Speaking Engagements and Volunteer Organizations

Barbara is regarded as a thought leader in the Canadian legal community, frequently presenting to various groups on wills and estates disputes, mediation, health law, employment law, and civil litigation. She speaks regularly to physicians about medical-legal issues and addressed KB judges at the 2024 National Judicial Institute on the topic of medical issues in family law matters.