Patrick D. Schmidt Future of Family Law Award 2026: Nominations Now Open

Nominations Open for the 2026 Patrick D. Schmidt Future of Family Law Award

Every two years, in honour of the late Patrick D. Schmidt, The Advocates’ Society presents a law award recognizing junior lawyers in the early years of practice who have dedicated their work to family law.

The Family Law Group at Thomson Rogers LLP exists today thanks to Patrick Schmidt. He not only created the department in the ‘80s but was a key figure in the firm. That’s why we’re honoured to see his legacy continue through The Advocates’ Society’s award.

Award Criteria and Eligibility

The award honours a candidate who shows:

• A strong commitment to family law practice
• Demonstrated professionalism and legal excellence
• Proven success in serving family law clients

Award Prize and Benefits

Sponsored by Thomson Rogers LLP, the award includes:

• A $2,000 cash prize
• Up to $1,000 in travel expenses to attend the Advocates’ Society Fall Forum, a leading legal conference in Canada

Nomination Deadline

Submit your nomination by May 25, 2026.

About Patrick D. Schmidt

Patrick Schmidt was a respected partner at Thomson Rogers LLP and leader of its family law group for many years. He played a key role in shaping the practice into the standard of excellence it maintains today.

Widely regarded as a “lawyer’s lawyer,” he built a reputation across Ontario for his:

• Deep knowledge of family law in Canada
• Strategic expertise in complex legal matters
• Mentorship within the legal community

Patrick Schmidt’s dedication to mentorship was unmatched. He was also instrumental in shaping many of his junior colleagues into the outstanding lawyers they have become—many of whom are leaders in their own right and continue to build upon Patrick’s legacy of excellence in the field.

Thomson Rogers LLP 90^th anniversary

As part of its 90th anniversary, Thomson Rogers LLP honoured Patrick Schmidt by dedicating a boardroom in recognition of his lasting impact on the firm and the practice of family law in Toronto.

Read more about the 90th anniversary project.

Thomson Rogers LLP Family Law Practice

Understanding your rights and obligations in marriage, cohabitation, separation, and divorce is essential to protecting your future. The family law lawyers at Thomson Rogers LLP in Ontario provide experienced, strategic guidance across all areas of family law.

Recognized by The Globe and Mail as one of Canada’s Best Law Firms for Family Law (2026) and ranked Tier 1 in Toronto and Canada, Thomson Rogers LLP is committed to protecting your rights with both legal excellence and compassionate advocacy.

Learn More or Get Legal Help

For more information about Thomson Rogers LLP’s family law practice, visit the Family Law practice page.