Legislative Drafting Conference (2026 Edition)

OVERVIEW | REGISTRATION FEES | CONTACT | TERMS & CONDITIONS
OVERVIEW
Dear Colleague,
On behalf of the organising committee and the Canadian Institute for the Administration of Justice (CIAJ), we are proud to present the 23rd Edition of CIAJ’s Legislative Drafting Conference, taking place September 9–11, 2026, in Ottawa and online.
This biennial conference brings together legislative drafters, legal professionals, academics, and others to explore the most pressing issues in modern legislative drafting, with a particular focus on the Canadian context.
The 2026 program offers thought-provoking discussions on the process of preparing legislative texts alongside reflections on recent developments shaping the field. Topics include the practical realities faced by drafters, new AI initiatives, Indigenous co-development of legislation, and the correction of legislative texts. Comparative approaches, ethical considerations, and interactive sessions will round out a rich and engaging program.
The conference will feature panels, networking opportunities, and collaborative activities, offering participants a unique chance to deepen their expertise and contribute to the future of legislative drafting.
Come join colleagues and experts from coast-to-coast-to-coast as we gather in Ottawa—and online—to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and shape the next chapter in legislative drafting.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Lerissa Thaver & Charlie Feldman
Co-Chairs
Bilingual program with simultaneous interpretation.
CPD Accreditation:
Participation in this program is accredited in provinces where CLE requirements for lawyers are mandatory.
REGISTRATION FEES
Registration fees are the same for both online and in-person participation. Virtual participation includes technical streaming costs, whilst in-person participation includes breakfast, lunch and refreshments during breaks.
| Participant type |
Early Bird* Until February 28, 2026 |
Regular* From March 1st, 2026 |
| CIAJ Member | $850 | $900 |
| Non-Member | $1,000 | $1,100 |
|
Academic |
$695 | $795 |
| Student | $95 | $95 |
| Fee for one day only (for all) | $595 | $595 |
*No tax is added to the registration fee.
CONTACT
For further information, please contact Danielle St-Hilaire, CIAJ’s Event Planner:
Tel.: 514-731-2855
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
You must pay the registration fee before the event
- In person participants: If you were unable to pay on time, we will ask you for a credit card on site, before the program begins.
- Online participants: If you were unable to pay on time, unfortunately, you will not be able to attend.
Participating online? Please display your name
You must display your full name when logging into the platform. The name displayed must match the one on your registration form. Otherwise, you may not be able to attend.
If you can no longer attend
You may transfer your registration to a colleague at no charge.
To request a transfer, email danielle.st-hilaire@ciaj-icaj.ca. You must complete the transfer at least 7 days before the event.
Should you choose to cancel your registration, fees can apply
- 30 days or more before the event: $100
- 7 to 30 days before the event: 50% of the registration fee
- Less than 7 days before the event: Full registration fee