In this episode, we sit down with Sanjay Kutty to unpack the highs, lows, and bold ideas behind Spark Law — a small firm he co-founded with the vision of redefining the traditional legal model.

From offering tiered, flat-rate legal services for startups to creating a collaborative co-working space for young lawyers, Spark Law set out to be a different kind of law firm — one built on innovation, community, and client-centricity. Picture “Google meets law firms” — where lawyers were encouraged to think outside the box, ditch the billable hour, and focus on growth, not just targets.

But then, COVID hit.

Sanjay shares the in-house perspective that shaped their vision, the marketing and economic hurdles they faced, and how the dream of a people-first legal space evolved. Now at boutique business law firm Linmac LLP, Sanjay reflects on what worked, what didn’t, and what he’d tell any young lawyer thinking of building something from scratch.

In this episode of Legally Abroad, hosts Samantha Allan and Kim Gale sit down with Kathryn McKaye Pretty, an Insurance Advisor from Lawyers Financial, to explore the financial challenges faced by the legal community in Canada, particularly NCA students and internationally trained lawyers. Kathryn shares invaluable insights on managing student debt, the importance of financial literacy, and how tailored insurance and investment solutions can empower legal professionals to secure their futures.

Lawyers Financial, formerly known as The Canadian Bar Insurance Association (CBIA), is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing high-quality insurance and investment products at competitive rates exclusively for the legal community. With over 40 years of experience, they offer a comprehensive suite of financial solutions, including life, health, and disability insurance, as well as investment options and pension plans, all tailored to meet the unique needs of lawyers, their families, and their firms.

Whether you're a new graduate or an experienced lawyer, this episode offers practical advice to help you achieve financial wellness while navigating the unique demands of the legal profession.

A big thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Osgoode Professional Development, a leader in lifelong learning for legal professionals; Lawyers Financial, offering comprehensive insurance and investment solutions for lawyers, and Emond Exam Prep, providing tailored study resources for Canadian legal exams!

Get ready to be inspired!

In this episode of NCA Network’s Legal Abroad, hosts Samantha Allan and Kim Gale sit down with Ishita Kashyap, a securities and capital markets lawyer, and Mrunal Masurekar, a corporate and regulatory lawyer in Toronto—co-founders of JOY (Just One Yes)!

They share their journeys, detailing the twists and turns of building careers in Toronto's competitive Bay Street arena. Their passion for assisting internationally trained lawyers (ITLs) shines as they discuss how JOY and NCA Network are paving pathways to meaningful connections and better visibility in the legal market.

Listen in for their expert advice on navigating the recruitment process, building a network, and breaking into the Canadian legal industry. JOY’s mission is clear: to empower ITLs to showcase their talents and assist employers in recognizing the incredible potential within the international legal community.

This episode is packed with practical insights and a whole lot of heart for aspiring lawyers everywhere!